Alexys Morera (Janis Sarkisian) and the tour company of the Broadway musical “Mean Girls” have taken center stage. This season, Broadway Alaska continues to bring the magic of the theater to Anchorage, with three captivating musicals set to grace the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts.

Uniting Community Through Theatrical Excellence

“Mean Girls” - A Tale of High School Complexities

The musical “Mean Girls” is based on a book by nine-time Emmy Award winner Tina Fey and her screenplay for the 2004 movie. It tells the story of teenager Cady Heron as she navigates the intricate world of high school popularity. The music by Jeff Richmond, a three-time Emmy Award winner, and the lyrics by Nell Benjamin add depth to the narrative. Choreography by Casey Nicholaw, a two-time Emmy winner, brings the story to life on stage. A movie adaptation starring Renee Rapp and Angourie Rice was released in January, further enhancing its popularity. The set design and costume choices transport the audience back to high school, making it a truly immersive experience.Behind the scenes, the logistical challenges of bringing “Mean Girls” to Anchorage are remarkable. The show closed in Chicago on Sunday night, and the set was quickly transported to Anchorage. A crew in Anchorage worked tirelessly to get the stage ready, with 100 workers, mostly Alaskans, spending all day on Wednesday to complete the setup. This shows the dedication and hard work that goes into every Broadway production.

“Beetlejuice” - A Haunting Tale of Grief and Supernatural

“Beetlejuice” is based on the 1988 cult-classic movie. It follows the story of Lydia Deetz, a teenager mourning her mother's death, who moves into a haunted house with her family. The presence of ghosts and the wild Beetlejuice leads to chaos as Lydia learns to deal with grief, family, and the supernatural. The musical features a talented cast, including Will Burton as Adam, Megan McGinnis as Barbara, Madison Mosley as Lydia, and Justin Collette as Beetlejuice. The set and lighting design create a spooky atmosphere that adds to the overall experience.This musical presents a unique opportunity for audiences to explore the themes of grief and the supernatural in a theatrical setting. It showcases the versatility of Broadway and its ability to tell different types of stories.

“Tina” - Celebrating Tina Turner's Legacy

The second season of Broadway Alaska will close with “Tina,” a musical celebrating the life and legacy of Tina Turner. From her humble beginnings in a small town in Tennessee to becoming an international superstar, Tina Turner's story is one of inspiration and determination. The musical captures her journey through powerful performances and heartfelt lyrics.The cast of “Tina” is truly remarkable, with Darius J. Manuel, Taylor Brice, Deidre Lang, and the entire ensemble bringing Tina Turner's story to life. The music and choreography pay tribute to her iconic style and performances, making it a must-see for fans of Tina Turner and theater lovers alike.Broadway Alaska is not just about the shows; it's also about community collaborations. Inspired by “Mean Girls,” West High students created colorful “buddy benches” sponsored by the Rotary Club of Anchorage East. These benches will be displayed in the performing arts center lobby and then placed in elementary and middle schools to combat bullying and promote kindness.Costello believes that Broadway can have a lasting impact on the community. Each dollar spent on a theater ticket enriches the cultural scene and stimulates economic activity. The steady flow of visitors and increased spending benefit Anchorage's businesses, making it a win-win situation for everyone.While the second season is in full swing, Costello and Scandalios are already working on the next season. Although they are keeping the details under wraps, they promise a major announcement next week.Tickets for “Mean Girls” are available by season subscription or for single performances. Prices range from $49 to $139, and there are 14 total showings over the course of the run. On Saturday and Sunday, there are two shows per day, one at 1 p.m. and another at 7 p.m.In conclusion, Broadway Alaska's second season is a testament to the power of theater to bring people together and create lasting memories. With three amazing musicals and community collaborations, it is an event not to be missed.