Once Upon a One More Time, the musical featuring the songs of Britney Spears, will be ending its Broadway run on September 3rd. The show, which opened at the Marquis Theatre on June 22nd after preview performances starting on May 13th, has failed to capture the attention of both critics and Broadway audiences. Despite the involvement and approval of Spears herself, the musical has struggled to fill seats, with capacities hovering around 50% for the past seven weeks. In its last reported week, the show brought in its lowest grosses yet, totaling $512,008 for eight performances.
Producers James L. Nederlander and Hunter Arnold have announced that plans are already in the works for a national tour and international productions of Once Upon a One More Time. This was part of the original intent behind bringing the show to Broadway. The musical had its world premiere in Washington D.C. in November 2021, and now the producers hope to take it across the United States and around the globe.
In a statement, Nederlander and Arnold expressed their pride and gratitude for the show and its creative team. They described it as a love letter to Britney Spears and a showcase of the incredible talent involved in the production. The producers thanked everyone who has been a part of the project, from the performers and designers to the staff, crew, and investors. They promised to share more news soon about the show’s future and its journey around the world.
Directed by Keone Madrid and Mari Madrid, who also choreographed the production, Once Upon a One More Time features some of Britney Spears’ most iconic hits, including “Oops I Did It Again,” “Circus,” and “Toxic.” The book, written by Jon Hartmere, follows familiar storybook princesses as they challenge their prescribed “happily ever after” narratives with the help of Cinderella and a copy of Betty Friedan’s The Feminine Mystique.
The cast of the musical includes Briga Heelan as Cinderella, Justin Guarini as Prince Charming, and Aisha Jackson as Snow White. Jennifer Simard portrays the Stepmother, Adam Godley takes on the role of the Narrator, and Brooke Dillman embodies the Original Fairy Godmother. Other cast members include Tess Solta as Stepsister Betany, Gabrielle Beckford as Rapunzel, Ashley Chiu as Sleeping Beauty, Nathan Levy as Clumsy, Ryan Steele as Prince Erudite, Morgan Whitley as Princess Pea, and Lauren Zakrin as Little Mermaid.
Once Upon a One More Time has been a collaborative effort that brought together the talents of many individuals. From the creative team to the performers on stage, everyone involved has contributed to the joyous and exhilarating experience that the musical offers. The show pays tribute to Britney Spears’ artistry and unique energy, showcasing the range of her impact on popular culture.
Although the Broadway run of Once Upon a One More Time may be coming to an end, its journey is far from over. With plans for a national tour and international productions, the show will continue to bring its message of empowerment and self-discovery to audiences around the world. As the show’s future takes shape, fans and theater enthusiasts can look forward to more news and updates about where Once Upon a One More Time will be enchanting audiences next.