The cast of Beetlejuice JR brings the acclaimed Broadway musical to the ACCT stage. Photo by Howard Soroos
Beetlejuice JR is a musical that takes the beloved Tim Burton film and cranks up the energy to 11 in the adaptation for youth theater now playing at Aldersgate Church Community Theater.
Beetlejuice JR takes the Broadway hit and tailors it for younger performers and audiences. The show captures the quirky essence of the original while making it accessible and fun for schools and community theaters.
The frightfully funny musical follows Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager still grieving the loss of her mother and obsessed with the whole “being dead thing.” Lucky for Lydia, she and her father move to a new house haunted by a recently deceased couple and Beetlejuice, a delightful demon with a real zest for life. When Lydia calls on Beetlejuice to scare away anyone with a pulse, this double-crossing specter shows his true stripes, unleashing a (Nether)world of pandemonium.
The humor is sharp, the pacing brisk, and the music retains its catchy, offbeat charm, even in a condensed format.
What stands out most is the balance between comedy and heart. Lydia’s emotional journey adds depth, while Beetlejuice’s outrageous personality keeps the energy high.
From the moment the curtain rises, the show immerses you in a world that’s equal parts spooky, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt. The bold set design is constantly shifting to match the manic pace of the story. It feels like stepping into Burton’s imagination, but with a Broadway musical twist.
The music by Eddie Perfect is catchy and clever and is brought to life under the deft musical direction of Michael Barranco. The score blends rock, pop, and traditional musical theater styles. Songs like “Dead Mom” and “Say My Name” stand out for their emotional depth and witty lyrics, balancing humor with tenderness. The choreography by Michele Koros is dynamic and playful, perfectly complementing the chaotic energy of the titular character.
“I absolutely love theater, and especially youth theater,” said producer Judi Conti. “There is something truly magical about watching young actors come together and put on a fabulous show. Beetlejuice JR is newly licensed for youth theater and making its debut in this area. It is funny, poignant, and the music is great. I think children of the ‘80s will especially appreciate it as they remember the original movie.”
What makes Beetlejuice JR more than just a comedy is its heart. Beneath the gags and ghostly antics lies a story about grief, family, and finding your place in the world. Lydia’s arc is poignant, and her relationship with Beetlejuice adds layers of complexity to the narrative.
The talented cast comes from nine schools from across the region.
“This musical drew people from around the area,” said director Julia St. Pierre. “We have over five different high schools represented and around nine local schools total. We have incredibly talented artists, including the actors, the lighting, scenic, costume, sound, and prop designers. It is so exciting to put together our own vision for Beetlejuice.”
If you’re looking for a musical that’s bold, bizarre, and bursting with personality, Beetlejuice JR delivers. It’s not just a spectacle, it’s a heartfelt, hilarious ride that leaves you grinning long after the final curtain.
Said Katie Dunn, who plays Lydia, “I hope the audience leaves feeling uplifted and with a new outlook on the beauty of life and the people we have around us.”
Beetlejuice JR is playing now through Jan. 25 at Aldersgate Church Community Theater, 1301 Collingwood Road, Alexandria, VA 22308. For tickets or more information visit www.acctonline.org.