Theater Magic Comes Alive in Boston with "Back to the Future the Musical"
The stage is set in Boston for a fresh take on a classic. "Back to the Future," the iconic 80s film, has been reimagined as a musical, marking its 40th anniversary with flair and nostalgia.
Audiences can expect to hear beloved hits from Huey Lewis and the News alongside new compositions, all while enjoying familiar lines, costumes, and the ever-popular DeLorean.
Lucas Hallauer and David Josefsberg step into the roles of Marty McFly and Doc Brown, respectively, bringing their own interpretations to these legendary characters.
"It's an iconic movie and these characters are iconic, played by iconic actors," Hallauer remarked. "So there's a lot to live up to, but it's really fun to hear everyone's reaction and that nostalgia hit them."
Josefsberg added, "Being able to take something that's iconic and finding ways to put myself into it is something that I'll really carry forward from this experience."
As Lorraine, Marty's mother, Methuen native Zan Berube expresses excitement about performing for Boston audiences. "The car, the costumes, the sets, the video screen. It's so realistic. It's theater magic to its fullest extent," she shared. Reflecting on her Broadway experience, Berube noted her amazement at the production's technical prowess.
Hallauer emphasized the advantage they have: "We kind of started a win because the characters are already so well loved and everyone wants to root for them."
This musical adaptation is not a mere copy of the film; it has been crafted by Bob Gale, the co-writer of the original movie.
"You can't say, 'oh, this is not what their creator would have wanted,' because it is the creator," Josefsberg explained, highlighting the authenticity of the production.
Hallauer expressed gratitude for being part of a project with such a dedicated fan base. "I'm grateful to be involved in something with such a big fan base and a big following," he stated.
Berube noted that this following includes the film's original stars. "Lea Thompson, the iconic, original Lorraine Banes. It's big shoes to fill, right? I got to meet her opening night when we were in Los Angeles. She greeted me after the show with the biggest hug and was like, 'You did it. You're doing it. Good job.' That was the biggest compliment I could have ever received."
Josefsberg praised Boston audiences for their intelligence and engagement: "They get the jokes, they get the humor, they get everything."
Berube echoed this sentiment, stating, "It's been really fun, not only because it's my home city, but I think the audiences are really engaged and excited that the show is here."
"Back to the Future the Musical" runs at the Citizens Opera House until Sunday, July 20th.