The KeyBank Broadway Series production of ‘Death Becomes Her’ simply amazes

From the first bombastic number by Viola (Nasia Thomas) and The Immortals to the Finale appropriately titled “The End” by Madeline (Kate Baily), Helen (Kristen Beth Williams) and Ensemble “Death Becomes Her” is chock full of surprises. From split second on stage costume changes, superb choreography, tons of catty one liners and a load of special effects including an amazing death scene this is one of the most exciting shows to hit the KeyBank State Theatre stage ever.

The musical with book by Marco Pennette and music and lyrics by Julia Mattison and Noel Carey is based on the 1992 film of the same name directed and produced by Robert Zemeckis. The critically acclaimed Broadway show received 10 Tony Awards nominations winning Best Costume Design.

Viola Van Horn and her group of immortals start off the action sharing a secret you would die for (“If You Want Perfection”). Viola offers a magic potion that grants beauty and perfection forever.

Taking vanity and self absorption to amazing heights, Madeline Ashton is performing in the Broadway spectacular “Me! Me! Me!” (“For The Gaze”). After the performance she is visited by struggling writer Helen Sharp and her esteemed plastic surgeon fiance Ernest (Ken Marino). All the way back to acting school the two have been “frenemies” (“That Was Then, This Is Now”) as Helen believes she has one-upped Madeline with her engagement.

Madeline invites the couple to her home and with Madeline being Madeline seduces Ernest (“Tell Me, Ernest”) stealing him away and marrying him for the free cosmetic surgery. At the wedding ceremony Ernest refuses his scripted vows saying simply, “til death do us part” (“Ernest’s Real Vows”). Wearing a bridal gown Helen parachutes into the nuptial ceremony while having a psychotic breakdown. She is committed to a mental hospital where spends years planning her revenge on Madeline.

Ten years pass with Madeline and Ernest unhappily married while Madeline has aged past Ernest’s cosmetic skill set. Gone are the movie rolls including a dog movie sequel as she is reduced to being the “before” on a wrinkle cream (“(I See) Me!”). Ernest meanwhile copes by drinking.

An invitation to attend a debut book launch by none other than Helen brings them out of their home. Viola’s #1, Chagall (Louis Williams Jr.) gives Madeline a business card urging the fading star to “get in touch”. Helen makes a radiant entrance looking young, successful and beautiful. She quickly mocks Madeline about her failing career and questionable film roles while openly flirting with Ernest (“Tell Me, Ernest (Reprise)”).

Madeline runs from the book signing and has a grand mal panic attack in the parking lot. Finding Viola’s card in her purse she makes a visit (“Falling Apart”). Madeline takes the potion after agreeing to vanish from public view after ten years in order to keep the treatment secret. Before leaving, Viola gives her a final warning: “Take care of your body.” (Siempre Viva”).

Before Madeline can return home, Helen breaks in and gives Ernest chase. The two plan to murder Madeline so that they can run away together (“Let’s Run Away Together”). Madeline returns, the two get into a fight resulting in Madeline falling down the stairs and breaking her neck. While Helen and Ernest are devising a new plan, Madeline comes back to life, twisted neck and all. Viola appears with the taunt that she has “A secret you would die for” (“Confrontation”).

We all know Nasia Thomas (Viola) from her touring role in “Six” and she brings the same spicy attitude to the stage in this delightful role. Kate Baily as the self absorbed Madeline is perfect for the role as she goes toe to toe with Kristen Beth Williams as Helen. Ken Marino as Ernest plays to perfect nerd to perfection. Louis Williams Jr. as Chagall is masterful in his delivery of juicy lines. Michael Buchanan as Madeline’s keeper, Stefan is proof that there are no small roles as he enlarges the part to fill the stage.

The show is brilliantly directed and choreographed by Christopher Gattelli. The imposing stage design is the genius work of Derek McLane. The over the top costuming comes from the brilliant mind of Paul Tazewell. The all important lighting and sound is accomplished by Justin Townsend and Peter Hylenski respectfully. Tim Clothier is in charge of the many illusions that delight us throughout. Matt Doebler is the music director of the nine piece orchestra that fills the huge theater with sound.

First of all, leave the kiddies at home for this one. This is very adult themed and naughty. For the adults you will find yourself hurting from laughing during the entire two and a half hours that fly by. It is a scream in its best sense.

The KeyBank Broadway Series touring production of “Death Becomes Her” will be on stage in the KeyBank State Theatre on Playhouse Square through October 3, 2026. For more information and tickets go to https://www.playhousesquare.org/ or call (216) 241-6000.