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November 25.2025

2 Minutes Read

As Broadway's The Queen of Versailles Closes, What Lies Ahead for New Musicals?

Queen of Versailles event with vibrant celebration.

The Curtain Falls: Queen of Versailles to Close Soon

Broadway’s The Queen of Versailles, featuring Kristin Chenoweth, will conclude its performances at the St. James Theatre on January 4, 2026. This announcement comes just six weeks into its run, as the show originally opened on November 9, 2025. It stands as the first production to publicly announce its closing following the much-anticipated Christmas and New Year holiday period, traditionally referred to as “Black Sunday” in theater circles.

Unexpected Financial Struggles in Broadway

Although The Queen of Versailles managed to pull in over $1 million per week at the box office, the production faced a challenging start marked by mixed to negative reviews despite a promising pre-Broadway run in Boston. With production costs soaring up to $22.5 million, the financial situation for the musical looks bleak. Producers are now hoping to capitalize on the holiday season with a push for ticket sales before the final performance, allowing audiences, including Tony voters, to catch the show before it closes.

Star Power and Mixed Reception

Kristin Chenoweth, a luminary in the Broadway scene, shines in the titular role of Jackie Siegel, while Academy Award winner F. Murray Abraham plays her husband, David Siegel. Critics' reviews have been varied, with some appreciating the musical's charm; Laura Collins-Hughes from The New York Times described it as "smart and sparkling." However, the overall reaction appears to have deterred prospective audiences from committing to advance tickets.

A Reflection of Broader Trends on Broadway

The struggles faced by The Queen of Versailles underscore a troubling trend within Broadway, where new musicals are increasingly burdensome both creatively and financially. Many recent productions are finding it hard to profit, highlighting a shift in audience preferences and a growing reliance on established hits. Industry insiders express concern about the sustainability of new musicals as they continue to grapple with these hurdles.

The Legacy of the Queen of Versailles

While the closing of The Queen of Versailles might be viewed as a disappointment, it also offers insight into the changing landscape of Broadway. The musical serves not only as a reflection of one couple's extravagant dreams but also of the industry’s current economic climate, which may reshape the future of musical theater. As the curtain falls, theater enthusiasts are reminded of the stories and struggles that frequently accompany artistic endeavors.

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As Broadway's The Queen of Versailles Closes, What Lies Ahead for New Musicals?

The Curtain Falls: Queen of Versailles to Close Soon

Unexpected Financial Struggles in Broadway

Star Power and Mixed Reception

A Reflection of Broader Trends on Broadway

The Legacy of the Queen of Versailles

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