Kristin Chenoweth Stars in 'The Queen of Versailles' Musical, Still Under Development
The musical 'The Queen of Versailles', featuring Kristin Chenoweth, is currently in development. It showcases a grand mega-mansion reveal, receiving a mixed reception from audiences.
Overview
- The new musical, 'The Queen of Versailles', is currently in its development phase, with Broadway star Kristin Chenoweth leading the cast.
- The production is notable for its ambitious staging, including a significant visual reveal of a mega-mansion, a key element of the story.
- This grand visual effect, depicting a mansion that has been under construction for over two decades, is a central feature of the show.
- Despite its ongoing development, the musical has already garnered a mixed reception, indicating varied opinions on its current state and artistic direction.
- The show aims to bring the story of 'The Queen of Versailles' to the stage, exploring themes related to the construction and impact of the opulent property.
Report issue
Read both sides in 5 minutes each day
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame this story by presenting a critical assessment of "The Queen of Versailles" musical. They highlight its perceived shortcomings, such as an unfinished feel, lack of clear narrative purpose, and missed opportunities for social commentary. The review uses evaluative language to convey a largely negative impression of the production's artistic merit and execution.
"Despite an out-of-town tryout in Boston, “The Queen of Versailles” still needs the stage filled with construction workers hammering in yellow vests."
Associated PressArticles (3)
FAQ
The musical is created by composer Stephen Schwartz, lyricist Stephen Schwartz, and book writer Lindsey Ferrentino. Kristin Chenoweth stars as Jacqueline 'Jackie' Siegel, with F. Murray Abraham as David Siegel and other notable cast members including Melody Butiu and Nina White.
The story follows Jackie and David Siegel's attempt to build the largest private home in America in Orlando, Florida, inspired by the Palace of Versailles, and how the 2008 Great Recession impacts their dreams and lavish lifestyle, exploring themes of fame, fortune, and the American Dream at great cost.
The production is notable for an ambitious and grand visual effect revealing a mega-mansion that has been under construction for over two decades, which is a key and central element of the show’s staging.
The musical has received a mixed reception with varied opinions on its current development and artistic direction, with praise for Kristin Chenoweth’s performance but some criticism for the workmanlike lyrics and storytelling effectiveness.
The musical premiered in 2025 at the St. James Theatre on Broadway, with a pre-Broadway engagement in Boston at Emerson Colonial Theatre earlier that year. It is scheduled to run during the 2025-26 Broadway season.
History
- This story does not have any previous versions.