The Short-Lived Journey of "The Queen of Versailles" on Broadway
Kristin Chenoweth, a beloved figure in the world of theater, has seen her latest project, the musical The Queen of Versailles, come to an early end. The show, which premiered on Broadway in November 2025, will close its doors on January 4, 2026. This decision marks a significant moment for the production, as it will have played for less than three months at the St. James Theatre in New York City.
Producers made the announcement on Monday, November 24, just two weeks after the show's official opening on November 9. By the time the curtain falls, the musical will have completed around 65 regular performances and 32 preview shows. The previews began on October 8, and although the production managed to generate over $1 million in grosses during recent weeks, it struggled with weak advance ticket sales and received mixed reviews from critics. These challenges ultimately led to the decision to close the show before its scheduled run could be completed.
Based on the 2012 documentary The Queen of Versailles directed by Lauren Greenfield, the musical brings together Kristin Chenoweth and Academy Award-winning songwriter Stephen Schwartz. This collaboration marks their first time working together on Broadway since the original run of Wicked in 2003. The show also features F. Murray Abraham in the role of David Siegel and is directed by Tony Award winner Michael Arden, known for his work on Maybe Happy Ending and Parade.
The story follows Jackie and David Siegel, a wealthy Florida couple who attempt to build the largest private home in America during the 2008 financial crisis. The $100 million mansion in Orlando, inspired by the Palace of Versailles, serves as the backdrop for exploring themes of the American Dream as the family’s lavish lifestyle faces mounting challenges from the economic downturn.
Prior to its Broadway debut, the musical had a successful run at Boston’s Emerson Colonial Theatre in the summer of 2024. During that time, it set box office records and generated excitement for its transfer to Broadway. However, the Broadway production faced harsh critical reviews that impacted its commercial prospects.
The early closure of The Queen of Versailles reflects broader challenges facing new Broadway musicals in recent years. Even with significant star power and a successful pre-Broadway run, productions have increasingly struggled to attract audiences and sustain long-term runs. According to industry reports, the difficulty in building advance ticket sales has become particularly challenging for the Broadway industry, especially when competing against established shows and special events that draw large crowds.
By January 4, the show will have been on Broadway for less than two months, significantly shorter than its originally scheduled run, which was set to extend through March 29, 2026. The closure marks a disappointment for producers and a rare setback for Chenoweth’s Broadway presence.
Key Details About the Production
- Cast: Kristin Chenoweth, F. Murray Abraham, and other notable performers.
- Songwriter: Stephen Schwartz, known for works like Wicked and Godspell.
- Director: Michael Arden, recognized for his work on previous Broadway hits.
- Premiere Date: November 9, 2025.
- Closing Date: January 4, 2026.
- Total Performances: Approximately 97 (65 regular + 32 previews).
Industry Implications
The short lifespan of The Queen of Versailles highlights the current struggles of new Broadway productions. Despite strong talent and positive pre-Broadway reviews, the show was unable to secure enough advance ticket sales to ensure a longer run. This trend suggests that even well-funded and highly anticipated shows must navigate a competitive landscape where audience interest is unpredictable.
For Chenoweth, this marks a rare setback in her otherwise successful career on Broadway. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, she has been a staple in the theater world for decades. Her involvement in The Queen of Versailles was highly anticipated, making the early closure all the more disappointing.
As the theater industry continues to evolve, the challenges faced by The Queen of Versailles serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between artistic vision, commercial viability, and audience engagement.
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