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Back To The Future on Broadway

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Back to the Future: The Musical brings the iconic 1985 film to life on the Broadway stage with electrifying performances, stunning special effects, and the time-traveling adventures of Marty McFly and Doc Brown. With a book by the original movie’s creators, Bob Gale and Robert Zemeckis, and a score that includes classic hits from the film along with original songs, Back to the Future is a thrilling ride for fans of the movie and newcomers alike. The show’s exciting visual effects, humor, and heart make it one of the most talked-about new Broadway musicals.

Here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing Back to the Future: The Musical on Broadway.

Overview of Back to the Future: The Musical

  • Location: Winter Garden Theatre, 1634 Broadway, New York, NY 10019.
  • Opening Date: Back to the Future: The Musical opened on Broadway in August 2023 after a successful West End run in London.
  • Show Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, including one intermission.
  • Audience: Suitable for ages 6 and up, making it a family-friendly musical. Children under 4 are not permitted in the theater.

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The Story of Back to the Future: The Musical

Back to the Future: The Musical closely follows the plot of the original 1985 movie, taking audiences on a thrilling, time-bending journey. Marty McFly, a teenager in 1985, accidentally travels back to 1955 in a time machine invented by his eccentric friend, Doc Brown. While in 1955, Marty meets his teenage parents and must ensure they fall in love, or he risks erasing his own existence. With time running out, Marty and Doc Brown must work together to send Marty back to the future.

Key Characters:

  • Marty McFly: The teenage protagonist who accidentally travels back in time and has to fix the past to secure his future.
  • Doc Brown: The quirky, genius inventor of the time-traveling DeLorean who helps Marty get back to the future.
  • George McFly: Marty’s awkward father, whom Marty helps to gain confidence and win over his future wife.
  • Lorraine Baines McFly: Marty’s teenage mother, who, to Marty’s horror, develops a crush on him when he travels back to 1955.
  • Biff Tannen: The school bully and antagonist, both in 1955 and 1985, who torments George McFly.

The musical adds emotional depth to the story while keeping all the humor, excitement, and heart of the original film.


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Music in Back to the Future

The musical features a mix of classic songs from the movie and original songs created for the stage show. The soundtrack includes memorable tunes from the 1980s that fans will recognize alongside new numbers that help expand the story.

Classic Songs from the Film:

  • “The Power of Love” – The iconic hit by Huey Lewis and the News, featured during Marty’s 1985 scenes.
  • “Johnny B. Goode” – Marty’s show-stopping performance of this Chuck Berry classic during the Enchantment Under the Sea dance in 1955.
  • “Back in Time” – Another Huey Lewis hit that plays as Marty returns to 1985.

Original Songs:

The musical also introduces new songs that help to develop the characters and their emotional arcs. Songs like “It’s Only a Matter of Time” and “Gotta Start Somewhere” showcase the hopes, dreams, and conflicts of the characters, blending seamlessly with the established soundtrack.


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Spectacular Special Effects

One of the highlights of Back to the Future: The Musical is its jaw-dropping special effects, particularly the DeLorean time machine, which takes center stage. The high-tech car appears to fly across the stage during key moments, creating the illusion of time travel.

DeLorean Time Machine:

  • The DeLorean is brought to life with incredible special effects, making it appear as if it’s speeding through time with flashing lights, fog, and movement. The final time travel sequence is a visual spectacle that leaves audiences in awe.

1950s vs. 1980s Settings:

  • The musical seamlessly shifts between the two time periods, transforming the stage from 1985 Hill Valley to its 1955 counterpart. The set design incorporates classic 1950s imagery with vibrant colors and nostalgic details, while the 1980s scenes bring a retro feel that fans of the movie will love.

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Cast and Creative Team

Back to the Future: The Musical brings together a talented cast and creative team, including many who were involved in the original film’s creation.

Director: John Rando

  • Tony Award-winning director John Rando (Urinetown) brings his comedic touch and creative vision to this fast-paced, high-energy musical.

Book: Bob Gale

  • Bob Gale, who co-wrote the original Back to the Future trilogy with Robert Zemeckis, wrote the book for the musical, ensuring that the story stays true to the beloved film while introducing new elements for the stage.

Original Cast:

  • Marty McFly: The role of Marty was originated in the West End by Olly Dobson. The Broadway cast is led by Casey Likes, who captures Marty’s humor, charm, and energy.
  • Doc Brown: Roger Bart reprises his role as Doc Brown from the West End production, bringing a zany, heartwarming portrayal of the eccentric inventor.

The cast’s dynamic performances help to capture the spirit of the original film while giving each character new life on stage.


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Tickets and Seating

Ticket Prices

  • Ticket prices for Back to the Future generally range from $69 to $250, depending on the seat location and performance date. Premium seats and weekend shows may cost more, while weekday matinees offer more affordable options.

Where to Buy Tickets

  • Tickets can be purchased directly from the Winter Garden Theatre box office, the official Back to the Future website, Ticketmaster, or other authorized Broadway ticket sellers.

Best Seats

  • Orchestra seats offer the closest view of the stage and allow you to fully appreciate the special effects and actors’ performances.
  • Front Mezzanine seats provide a great vantage point to take in the larger-scale stage effects and the flying DeLorean sequences.
  • Rear Mezzanine seats are more affordable while still offering clear views of the entire stage, though you may miss some of the finer details.

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When to Visit: Best Times and Tips for Booking

Best Time to See the Show

  • Weekday Matinees: These performances are generally less expensive and less crowded, making them a great option for families or those looking to avoid weekend crowds.
  • Booking in Advance: Back to the Future: The Musical is a popular show, so booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for weekend performances or holiday seasons.

Rush Tickets and Lotteries

  • Some Broadway shows offer rush tickets or digital lotteries for discounted day-of tickets. Be sure to check the official website or app for any available offers.

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What to Expect at the Show

High-Energy Performances

The cast of Back to the Future brings infectious energy to the stage, with charismatic performances that honor the original film while adding new dimensions to the characters. Casey Likes as Marty McFly and Roger Bart as Doc Brown deliver memorable, heartwarming performances, while the ensemble cast enhances the production with lively choreography and humor.

Special Effects Extravaganza

The technical aspects of the show, particularly the DeLorean and time travel effects, are breathtaking. The final time travel scene is a showstopper, utilizing lighting, projections, and sound to create an immersive and thrilling experience that’s sure to impress audiences of all ages.

Nostalgia and Humor

Fans of the original movie will appreciate the references, jokes, and Easter eggs scattered throughout the musical. Iconic moments from the film are recreated on stage, while new comedic bits add freshness to the familiar story.


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Dining and Nearby Attractions

The Winter Garden Theatre is located in the heart of the Broadway Theater District, offering plenty of dining and sightseeing options nearby.

Dining Options

  • Carmine’s: A family-style Italian restaurant located nearby on 44th Street, perfect for a pre-show meal.
  • Junior’s Restaurant & Bakery: Famous for its cheesecake and classic diner fare, Junior’s is a great spot for a casual bite after the show.
  • Sardi’s: A Broadway staple with caricatures of celebrities and classic American dishes.

Nearby Attractions

  • Times Square: Just a short walk from the theater, Times Square is an iconic New York City destination with plenty of sights, shops, and lights to explore before or after the show.
  • Rockefeller Center: Located a few blocks away, Rockefeller Center offers shopping, dining, and sightseeing, including the famous ice-skating rink during the winter months.
  • Bryant Park: A great place to relax and enjoy outdoor activities, Bryant Park is nearby and often hosts seasonal events.

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Tips for Attending Back to the Future

  • Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime to find your seat and enjoy the theater’s atmosphere.
  • Dress Comfortably: While there’s no formal dress code for Broadway shows, smart-casual attire is common. The theater can get chilly, so bring a light jacket.
  • Stay After the Show: You may be able to meet the cast at the stage door for autographs or photos after the performance.

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Conclusion

Back to the Future: The Musical on Broadway is a thrilling and nostalgic journey that captures the heart, humor, and excitement of the original film while adding new musical elements and jaw-dropping special effects. Whether you’re a fan of the 1985 movie or new to the story, this Broadway production offers a time-traveling adventure that’s perfect for audiences of all ages. With its high-energy performances, incredible stagecraft, and classic songs, Back to the Future is a must-see show that will leave you wanting to travel back and experience it all over again.


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Cover photo: backtothefuturemusical.com