In the past, successful Broadway musicals were often adapted into movies, with the film versions sometimes surpassing the original stage productions. Classics such as West Side Story (1961), The Music Man (1962), My Fair Lady (1964), The Sound of Music (1965), Fiddler on the Roof (1971), and Cabaret (1972) all began their journey as stage musicals. However, recently the tables have turned.
Popular movies are now being transformed into theatrical musicals, but this adaptation process doesn’t always live up to the greatness of the originals. Such is the case with “Back to the Future”, the musical version of the beloved film. After opening in London in 2021, the musical is now embarking on an American tour that has arrived at the Cadillac Palace in Chicago.
For those who have not yet experienced the fantastic film, the musical may serve as a gateway to discovering it. Fans of the movie who can’t get enough of time travel will also enjoy the show’s special effects, stage design, comedic moments, and the nostalgic trip back to the 1980s.
Similar to its silver screen counterpart, the theatrical production of “Back to the Future” explores the fascinating world of science fiction. At its core, it raises questions about our ability to alter the universe, events, or the future repercussions of our actions. As the eccentric inventor, Doc Brown, wisely warns, tampering with the space-time continuum could be perilous.
The story kicks off when Doc Brown summons teenager Marty McFly to meet him in a mall parking lot, where he unveils his time-traveling invention made from a DeLorean car. Fueled by stolen radioactive plutonium, obtained from Libyan terrorists, the DeLorean propels Marty 30 years back in time from 1985 to 1955. In this unfamiliar era, he accidentally encounters his own parents during their high school years, jeopardizing his and his family’s existence. To safeguard their future, Marty must ensure that two crucial teenagers fall in love.
Although the musical features four songs from the film, including the iconic “The Power of Love,” the original score composed by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard doesn’t leave a lasting impact. Nevertheless, the show compensates for this with a plethora of illusions and technical gimmicks that add an enjoyable visual element.
Thanks to the skillful choreography of Chris Bailey, the scene where Marty grabs a guitar and performs “Johnny B. Goode,” inspiring a Rock ‘n Roll dance frenzy among his high school peers, becomes one of the show’s delightful highlights.
Most importantly, the musical boasts a terrific cast. Caden Brauch portrays Marty as an optimistic and determined teenager with immense talent. Don Stephenson embodies the spirit of Christopher Lloyd’s Doc Brown, infusing the character with childlike wonder and delivering hilarious moments, such as the jubilant exclamation, “It works! It works! It works!” when his invention finally succeeds.
Additionally, Burke Swanson is exceptional as Marty’s timid father, George McFly, while Zan Berube convincingly portrays Marty’s mom, Lorraine. As for the obnoxious school bully Biff Tannen, Ethan Rogers nails the role perfectly.
Although not flawless, this stage adaptation of “Back to the Future” delivers delightful entertainment. It offers an optimistic and uplifting perspective on the possibilities of the future, which is a timely reminder. As summer comes to an end, catching this show may be a fantastic way to conclude the season.