Queen of Versailles Broadway Musical Announces Early Closing

The new Broadway musical The Queen of Versailles is ending its run much earlier than planned. Producers confirmed the show will play its final performance at the St. James Theatre on January 4. This decision comes just weeks after its official opening night in November.

The musical, starring Kristin Chenoweth, struggled to maintain financial viability despite decent audience numbers. High running costs for large-scale productions made its weekly grosses unsustainable for a long-term run.

Financial Figures and Critical Reception

According to box office data reported by Reuters, the show was bringing in just over $1 million weekly. Its audience capacity was around 90 percent. These figures are typically healthy but not enough to cover the immense costs of a major Broadway musical.

The production received largely mixed to negative reviews from critics. However, The New York Times notably designated it as a Critic’s Pick. The show’s early closure highlights the financial pressures on Broadway.

A High-Profile Creative Team

The musical reunited Kristin Chenoweth with composer Stephen Schwartz, famed for Wicked. Michael Arden, a Tony Award-winning director, helmed the production. The book was written by Lindsey Ferrentino.

The story is based on the 2012 documentary about Jackie and David Siegel. It follows their quest to build a massive Florida mansion inspired by the Palace of Versailles. Their project is derailed by the 2008 financial crisis, adding a dramatic, dark turn to the story.

The early closure of The Queen of Versailles marks a significant disappointment for its celebrated creative team and underscores the immense financial challenges facing new productions on Broadway today, even with star power behind them.

Thought you’d like to know-

Why is The Queen of Versailles closing early?

The musical is closing due to financial challenges. Despite decent attendance, its high running costs made the current box office grosses unsustainable for a long-term Broadway run.

How long did The Queen of Versailles run on Broadway?

The show began previews on October 8 and opened on November 9. Its final performance is scheduled for January 4, resulting in a truncated Broadway engagement.

Who starred in the Broadway production?

Kristin Chenoweth and F. Murray Abraham led the cast. The production also featured performers like Ninah White and Tatum Grace Hopkins in supporting roles.

What was the critical response to the musical?

Reviews were mostly mixed to negative. A notable exception was The New York Times, which named the production a Critic’s Pick despite the overall tepid critical reception.

What is the musical based on?

It is based on the 2012 documentary film of the same name. The story follows the Siegels’ ambitious home-building project and its collapse during the 2008 financial crisis.

Trusted Sources

The New York Times, Reuters, Associated Press