Back to the Future the Musical is an exciting new stage production based on the classic 1980s Back to the Future film trilogy. With a book by Bob Gale and new music and lyrics by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard, the musical promises to bring the beloved story of Marty McFly and Doc Brown to life in a whole new way. The show made its world premiere in Manchester, England in 2020 before opening on the West End in London later that year. But will this spectacular musical about time travel and rock n’ roll ever cross the pond and come to the United States? Let’s examine the possibilities.
Background on Back to the Future Musical
Back to the Future the Musical has been in development for over 10 years. Bob Gale, who co-wrote and produced the Back to the Future films, first announced plans for a stage musical adaptation in 2010. It took nearly a decade for the show to become a reality, with its official world premiere finally taking place at the Manchester Opera House in February 2020.
The musical features a brand new score by Emmy and Grammy winning composer Alan Silvestri, who composed the iconic themes and score for the Back to the Future films. Silvestri teamed up with two-time Grammy winning songwriter and producer Glen Ballard (known for co-writing songs like Alanis Morissette’s “You Oughta Know”) to craft the musical numbers and songs.
The book for the stage show was penned by Bob Gale himself, ensuring the musical stays true to the spirit and storytelling of the classic films. The production is directed by Tony Award winner John Rando, known for helming hit musicals like Urinetown and On the Town.
Reviews were strong for the Manchester world premiere, with praise for the show’s spectacle, engaging story, and Silvestri and Ballard’s catchy musical numbers. After a successful UK launch, there has been much speculation about whether Back to the Future the Musical could transfer to Broadway or tour North America.
Will Back to the Future Musical Come to the US?
So what are the chances Back to the Future the Musical could make the leap across the pond? Here are some key factors:
Popular IP and Brand Recognition: Back to the Future is one of the most popular, recognizable film properties in the world. Multiple generations grew up loving the adventures of Marty McFly, Doc Brown, and the DeLorean time machine. There is a huge built-in audience eager to see the story come to life on stage.
Proven Creative Pedigree: With the involvement of Back to the Future co-writer Bob Gale penning the book, composer Alan Silvestri returning to craft new music and lyrics, and experienced director John Rando at the helm, the musical has serious theater credentials. This experienced creative team likely increases the chances of a successful US launch.
Past History of Movie Musical Transfers: In recent years, several high profile musicals based on hit movies have made the transfer from the UK to Broadway stages. Disney’s Mary Poppins, The Lion King, Aladdin, and Frozen have all followed this path to success. Back to the Future seems primed to follow a similar trajectory.
Popular Demand and Social Media Buzz: There has been an outpouring of demand and hype for the show to come to the US on social media from enthusiastic Back to the Future fans. This visible excitement and desire likely motivates producers to bring the show stateside.
Financial Success in the UK: After strong ticket sales and popularity in Manchester and London’s West End, Back to the Future the Musical has proven successful across the pond. This financial achievement makes a transfer appear attractive and lower risk.
However, some factors could still prevent or delay a US premiere:
Ongoing COVID-19 Impacts: The pandemic shook up Broadway and touring productions for over two years. As shows get back up and running, producers may wait to see how health and safety protocols and audience behaviors evolve before committing to an expensive US transfer.
Availability of Theaters: With high demand for a limited number of Broadway theaters, securing the right venue at the right time poses challenges for any new production. Competing shows vying for real estate makes timing precarious.
Financial Investment Required: Moving any large-scale musical production to the US requires major financial investment. If investors and producers lack confidence or want to minimize risk, plans could stall.
Unknown Box Office Potential: While the IP and fanbase provide reason for optimism, you never know how ticket buying audiences will respond. The novelty of a stage vs. screen adaptation could impact demand.
Prediction on US Premiere Timeline
Given the multitude of factors in play, here is an educated prediction on when Back to the Future the Musical could realistically make its US debut:
Earliest Potential Opening: Spring/Summer 2023
This would represent a quick turnaround from the UK premiere in 2020, likely involving a limited engagement or out-of-town tryout before hitting Broadway.
Most Realistic Estimate: 2024-2025
Allowing time for the Broadway landscape to regain stability post-COVID, this timeline lets producers ready resources for a full-scale Times Square opening.
Possibility of Delayed Arrival: 2026 or Beyond
Under less favorable conditions like ongoing pandemic impacts, financing issues, or lack of viable Broadway theaters, the US launch could get pushed back a few years.
Regardless of exact timing, the tremendous excitement around the musical and its built-in fanbase point to an eventual US arrival, whether on Broadway, on tour, or in sit-down productions in major markets. It’s not a question of if, but when Marty McFly will take the stage stateside.
Potential US Locations for Premiere
When Back to the Future the Musical does cross the Atlantic, what are some likely locations for its American debut?
Broadway, New York City
A Broadway engagement would allow the show to launch with maximum visibility and exposure in the heart of the theater district.
West End Theater, Off-Broadway
Off-Broadway allows large-scale productions in a major market at lower risk and cost.
Tryout in Chicago
Chicago frequently hosts pre-Broadway tryouts and out-of-town runs.
Los Angeles Sit-Down Production
Given the Hollywood connection, Los Angeles would be a prime market for a sit-down production.
US Tour Launching in Major Market
The musical could premiere with an American tour starting in a city like Boston, Houston or Denver.
Las Vegas Residency
Las Vegas has become a popular spot for movie-based musical residencies lately.
Wherever Back to the Future lands first, let’s hope the DeLorean’s flux capacitor gets powered up soon for excited American audiences eager to go back in time with this showstopping musical. Great Scott!
Potential Casting for US Production
When Back to the Future the Musical sets its coordinates for the United States, what actors might be cast in the coveted lead roles of Marty McFly and Doc Brown? Here are some possibilities:
Marty McFly
– Andrew Barth Feldman – Starred in Dear Evan Hansen on Broadway
– Max Clayton – Played Buddy Holly in Buddy and Donny Novitski in Bandstand
– Colton Ryan – Originated Connor in Dear Evan Hansen and played Mark Cohen in Rent Live
– Nick Adams – Played Whizzer in Falsettos revival
– Aaron Tveit – Broadway veteran of Next to Normal, Catch Me If You Can, Moulin Rouge
Doc Brown
– Rob McClure – Star comedian known for Chaplin, Mrs. Doubtfire, Beetlejuice
– Jonathan Crombie – Man of a Thousand Voices, Broadway’s The Drowsy Chaperone
– Marc Kudisch – Originated Trevor Graydon in Thoroughly Modern Millie
– David Harris – Broadway actor in The producers, Grease, and Annie Get Your Gun
– Jonathan Sadowski – Portrayed Herbie in 2003 Broadway revival of Gypsy
With Christopher Lloyd’s iconic portrayal of Doc Brown, finding the right eccentric scientist will be key. A relative newcomer could make sense for Marty to parallel Michael J. Fox’s breakout film role. Regardless of casting, Back to the Future fans will be thrilled to see these classic characters brought to life in a fresh new way.
Potential Musical Numbers
One of the most exciting aspects of Back to the Future the Musical is the prospect of new, original songs and musical numbers based on the story. Here is some speculation on what songs we may hear when the show crosses to American theaters:
“Back in Time” – Likely upbeat, rock-infused opening number introducing Marty, Doc, and the concept of time travel
“The Power of Love” Ballad – Emotional song tying to one of the film’s central themes
“Johnny B. Goode Jam” – High energy rock number celebrating the famous sequence from the first film
“Mr. Sandman” – A 50s style tune evoking the Enchantment Under the Sea Dance
“The Storm of the Century” – Dramatic number about the iconic Hill Valley lightning storm
“The Future is Now” – Anthem for Marty set in futuristic 2015 timeline
“Biff’s Song” – Comical villain solo for Biff Tannen
“Flying DeLorean/88 Miles Per Hour” – Soaring power ballad for the film’s iconic car and catchphrase
The musical possibilities are endless. With Silvestri and Ballard’s composing talents, Back to the Future on stage is sure to deliver thrilling new musical highs.
Innovative Technical Elements
To bring the cinematic world of Back to the Future to the stage, some innovative technical theatrical elements will likely be required. Here are some possibilities:
Motion Control Time Machine – The DeLorean time machine is central to the story. Expect a high-tech rig allowing the car to appear to fly and travel through time.
Hologram Projections – Holographic or “Pepper’s Ghost” effects could help recreate crucial scenes like Doc Brown appearing in the past or future to deliver warnings.
Integrated LED Screens – Large format LED screens incorporated into the set design can establish settings like Hill Valley town square while allowing easy scene changes.
Lighting Effects for Time Travel – Dynamic lighting using strobes, concert-style lights and shifting color palettes can help sell the effect of time jumps.
Automatic Set Pieces – Sections of scenery and props may utilize automation to speed transitions between the 1980s, 1950s and futuristic settings.
Retro Costumes/Wardrobe – Detailed period costumes help establish the 1950s and 80s time periods. Expect nostalgic tailoring and neon hues.
If any musical can combine tech spectacle with heart, it’s Back to the Future. Audiences will be eager to see how the show translates the movie magic to the stage.
Opportunities for Audience Interaction and Immersion
As an intensely beloved pop culture property, Back to the Future the Musical has opportunities to break the fourth wall and immerse audiences in the experience. Some possibilities include:
– Having a DeLorean car on display in the theater lobby for photo opportunities
– Audience members dressing up in costumes related to the show
– Incorporating real world locations special to BTTF fans into the production, like Hill Valley’s Clock Tower
– Unique concession stand items referencing the films like Pepsi Free sodas
– Easter egg props and set decorations that only die-hard fans will appreciate
– Inviting audience members on stage before the show for contests like Huey Lewis lip sync competitions
– Selling exclusive Back to the Future musical merch only available at the live show
– Pre and post show activities like 1950s enchantment under the sea dances
– Photo ops with the time traveling DeLorean vehicle for premium ticket holders
– Immersive lobby and theater decor transforming the space into the world of the films
The right mix of nostalgia and interactive fun could make the musical a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable theatergoing experience for audiences.
Conclusion
Back to the Future the Musical has the beloved source material, creative talent, and demonstrated UK success to become a hit on American shores. While an exact timeline remains uncertain, fans can likely expect Doc and Marty to arrive on Broadway or tour in the next few years. The anticipation is already building with US fans eager to experience this spectacular time traveling musical adventure live on stage. All aboard the DeLorean – next stop Hill Valley!