Kristin Chenoweth is returning to the Broadway stage for the first time in a decade—an event almost as anticipated as her resurrection. She’s currently set to star in the musical version of The Queen of Versailles. This new stage adaptation takes its cues from Lauren Greenfield’s award-winning and acclaimed 2012 documentary. It chronicles the true, larger-than-life saga of socialite Jacqueline “Jackie” Siegel and her money-baron husband, David Siegel.
The story tracks the Siegels as they attempt to realize their incredible, terrible ambition – constructing the largest privately owned house in America. Despite this tremendous undertaking, which has cost an estimated $100 million so far, construction is not yet finished. In this documentary-musical hybrid, Chenoweth truly walks in Jackie Siegel’s shoes. At the same time, iconic actor F. Murray Abraham makes her husband, David Siegel, a vivid character on stage.
Chenoweth shares her excitement for the iconic character, calling Jackie “just a very interesting, very fun, tragic character to play.” This show will mark her first time back on Broadway since 2015. At the time, she was starring in On the Twentieth Century, a performance that would win her a Tony nomination and a Drama Desk Award.
The Queen of Versailles features music by Stephen Schwartz, known for his work on Wicked, in which Chenoweth originated the role of Glinda back in 2003. The musical, directed by Tony nominee Michael Arden with a book adapted by Lindsey Ferrenitno, premieres in just a few days.
This production originally opened up in Boston before traveling to Broadway. Chenoweth highlights that audiences can expect surprises in this adaptation, noting that it carries a “little bit” of comedy amidst its dramatic elements.
“Audiences will be surprised by what they see in the musical.” – Kristin Chenoweth
Aside from her stage pursuits, Chenoweth has collaborated with Laura Geller Beauty. This collaboration takes her creative work off the stage and into a much bigger realm. As she gets ready to return to the frontlines, Chenoweth’s re-entry is sure to make both old and new fans jump for joy.