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The Queen of Versailles Musical Set for Broadway
Sonia Friedman has been announced as a producer and general partner for the highly anticipated musical, The Queen of Versailles. Following a record-breaking world premiere at Boston’s Emerson Colonial Theatre in the summer of 2024, plans are underway to bring the musical to Broadway for the 2025-26 season, with specific dates and theater details yet to be confirmed.
Friedman expressed her enthusiasm for joining the project, stating, “I am thrilled to be joining Bill Damaschke, Greg Nobile, and Kristin Chenoweth on the producing team of The Queen of Versailles. I completely adore this original new musical. The Siegels’ story speaks to something fundamental about our world—about wealth and want, of course, but also about family, fragility, and, crucially, the need to love and to be loved. It’s a cautionary tale, a warning against hubris, but it’s also deeply and irresistibly human. That’s what struck me when I first saw it in Boston; it’s not only a musical that’s glorious, hilarious, and full of great songs and performances, but one with so much heart, depth, and humanity.” She also praised Kristin Chenoweth’s portrayal of Jackie Siegel, highlighting her skillful blend of humor and vulnerability along with her exceptional vocal abilities.
Sonia Friedman CBE has a remarkable track record in theatrical production, having initiated and produced over 270 new works since 1990. Her company has amassed a notable 63 Olivier Awards, 48 Tony Awards, and three BAFTAs. Recently, she was recognized in The Standard 100, showcasing influential figures in London for 2024. Additionally, she has been awarded ‘Producer of the Year’ four times at the Stage Awards and earned a spot on TIME Magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2018.
The Queen of Versailles is inspired by Lauren Greenfield’s acclaimed 2012 documentary and delves into the lives of Jackie and David Siegel. The musical will feature Tony and Emmy Award winner Kristin Chenoweth, with music and lyrics by Academy Award winner Stephen Schwartz, and a book by Lindsey Ferrentino. Music direction will be handled by Mary-Mitchell Campbell, choreography by Lauren Yalango-Grant and Christopher Cree Grant, and direction by Tony Award winner Michael Arden.
The narrative of The Queen of Versailles follows Jackie Siegel, who transitions from a computer engineer to a beauty queen and ultimately into the role of a billionaire’s wife. She views herself as a symbol of the American Dream. Together with her husband, David “The Timeshare King” Siegel, and their eight children, they embark on an ambitious project: building what they aim to be the largest private residence in America, a $100 million mansion inspired by the Palace of Versailles in Orlando, Florida. However, as the Great Recession of 2008 approaches, their extravagant ambitions begin to collapse, providing a poignant look at the costs associated with fame, wealth, and familial bonds.
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www.broadwayworld.com