The Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) is currently hosting the national tour of Back to the Future: The Musical, having opened to a packed house on June 10. That’s a testament to how beloved this movie was, and that it has stood the test of time. This extraordinary adaptation of the 1985 film brings time travel, rock ‘n’ roll, and high-energy choreography to the stage, offering audiences a nostalgic yet innovative and fun theatrical experience you can’t miss!
Directed by Tony Award winner John Rando, the musical follows Marty McFly, adeptly portrayed by Lucas Hallauer (who even resembles Michael J. Fox from afar!), a teenager who fortuitously travels back to 1955 in a DeLorean-turned-time-machine. This device is built by the eccentric scientist, Doc Brown, hysterically portrayed by David Josefsberg. The production captures the essence of the film by including original songs by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard, and classic hits like “The Power of Love” and “Johnny B. Goode”, but it’s the relationship between these two main characters that tugs on our memory and heart strings.
Mike Bindeman couldn’t be more perfect in the role of George McFly! Then there’s Zan Berube, as Marty’s mother Lorraine, who makes us feel the sexual tension between the two before they know what the deal is! While the main cast delivers energetic performances that capture the spirit of the original characters, the ensemble supports the narrative with dynamic choreography by Chris Bailey, and strong vocals throughout, enhancing the overall theatrical experience. Kudos to Music Director Matt Doebler for leading the flawless band.
The show’s design team, including Tim Hatley (set and costume design), Tim Lutkin and Hugh Vanstone (lighting), Gareth Owen (sound), and Finn Ross (video), has created a visually stunning, jaw-dropping production. The stage is brought to life with innovative projections and lighting effects, seamlessly blending the live action with arresting digital imagery. The DeLorean, central to the plot, is a highlight, with its time-traveling sequences flawlessly executed. Arrive early and you can have your picture taken with it outside before the show!
Themes of failure before success, ambition, courage and self-belief are present in the production, as Doc comments on several of his failed inventions despite having discovered time travel. These are important qualities to have if you’re to succeed in the face of adversity.
“If you take nothing else from this study experience, it’s that you should understand that EVERYBODY gets rejected sometimes, even fails sometimes,” says creator and writer of Back to the Future Bob Gale. “It hurts, but we can all help one another deal with that pain, just by showing a little kindness to somebody in that situation, just as you would appreciate that from somebody else. Just as our characters do in Back to the Future, and to see it as an opportunity to learn and to do better.”
Back to the Future: The Musical, with its captivating performances, impressive technical design, and timeless story, is a must-see for theatergoers of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the sensation or new to the story, this spectacular musical adaptation promises an unforgettable journey through time.
Don’t interrupt the space continuum! Relive the magic through this high-flying, time-traveling spectacle! Flux capacitor not included. Hurry, before you’re outatime! Production runs through June 15. For more information, visit www.ppacri.org.