Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre is set to host the world premiere of the musical adaptation of the 1992 horror-comedy film “Death Becomes Her.” Michelle Williams has been announced as the latest addition to the cast, taking on the role of the mysterious Viola van Horn.
The musical, directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Christopher Gattelli, is based on the film directed by Robert Zemeckis, starring Meryl Streep, Goldie Hawn, and Bruce Willis. The production is scheduled to run from April 30 to June 2.
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Williams joins previously cast Tony Award nominees Megan Hilty and Jennifer Simard, reprising their roles from the 2023 industry reading as Madeline Ashton and Helen Sharp, respectively. Christopher Sieber, a two-time Tony nominee, will take on the role originally portrayed by Bruce Willis, Ernest Menville.
The musical, featuring an original score by Noel Carey and Julia Mattison, and a book by Marco Pennette, tells the story of Madeline Ashton, the epitome of beauty in Hollywood, and her rivalry with Helen Sharp, a long-suffering author. The plot takes a supernatural turn when Viola Van Horn, played by Michelle Williams, enters the scene with a mysterious secret.
The ensemble cast boasts a talented lineup, including Marija Abney, Sarita Colon, Kaleigh Cronin, Natalie Charle Ellis, Taurean Everett, Michael Graceffa, Kolton Krouse, Josh Lamon, Sarah Meahl, Diana Vaden, Sir Brock Warren, Bud Weber, Ryan Worsing, Ericka Hunter Yang, and Warren Yang. Additionally, Beau Harmon, Johanna Moise, Amy Quanbeck, and Zach Williams will serve as swings.
The creative team behind the production includes notable names in the industry, such as Mary-Mitchell Campbell for music supervision, Doug Besterman for orchestrations, and Derek McLane for set design. The musical promises a unique blend of fantasy, humor, and revenge, echoing the legacy of the original film.
“Death Becomes Her” has been a long-anticipated adaptation, with its roots dating back to 2017. The musical pioneers its own path while paying homage to the cinematic innovation of the 1992 film, known for its groundbreaking use of CGI effects. 1992’s “Death Becomes Her” achieved moderate success at the box office, grossing around $149 million worldwide against a $55 million budget. The film’s cult following grew through home entertainment releases, leading to adaptations like the recent musical.