Kristin Chenoweth Stars in THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES on Broadway | First Look Photos & Preview (2025)

Imagine chasing the ultimate American Dream, only to watch it shatter spectacularly—daring you to question if the pursuit was ever worth the fall. That's the gripping heart of The Queen of Versailles on Broadway, a musical that pulls back the curtain on fame, fortune, and the steep price of excess.

But here's where it gets controversial: Is building a $100 million mansion in the midst of an economic downturn a symbol of ambition or reckless hubris? We'll dive into that soon, but first, let's set the stage for this dazzling new production.

Directed by the acclaimed Tony Award winner Michael Arden, with music and lyrics crafted by the legendary Academy Award recipient Stephen Schwartz, The Queen of Versailles is set to captivate audiences at the St. James Theatre. The show stars the brilliant Tony and Emmy Award winner Kristin Chenoweth, alongside Academy Award winner F. Murray Abraham, promising a powerhouse performance. Written by Olivier Award nominee Lindsey Ferrentino, this musical kicks off its preview performances on Wednesday, October 8, and officially opens its doors on Sunday, November 9.

Now, for those who might be new to this story, let's unpack it gently. The Queen of Versailles draws inspiration from Lauren Greenfield's acclaimed 2012 documentary film, weaving together the real-life tales of Jackie and David Siegel. Jackie, who rose from a computer engineer to Mrs. Florida and eventually a billionairess, embodies the quintessential American Dream—rising from humble beginnings to unimaginable wealth. As the spouse of David, famously known as 'The Timeshare King,' and the mother of their eight children, she embarks on their most audacious project yet: constructing the biggest private residence in the United States right in Orlando, Florida. Priced at a staggering $100 million, this opulent home is vast enough to house her grandest aspirations and directly inspired by the iconic Palace of Versailles in France—a historic symbol of royal extravagance and architectural grandeur, reminding us of the lavish lifestyles of European monarchs.

And this is the part most people miss: As the Great Recession of 2008 casts its dark shadow, Jackie and David's glittering dreams start to unravel, dragging their extravagant way of life down with them. The musical delves deep into the authentic toll of celebrity and riches, chronicling one family's relentless chase after the American Dream—no matter the sacrifices involved. It's a poignant reminder that behind the glitz, real lives are at stake, and sometimes, the cost of chasing perfection is far higher than anyone bargained for.

(Photo credit: Julieta Cervantes)

[The Queen of Versailles on Broadway - Photo 1]

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What do you think—does the American Dream still hold the same allure in today's world, or has it become a dangerous illusion? And here's a provocative twist: Some might argue that the Siegels' downfall was inevitable due to their unchecked materialism, while others see it as a tragic byproduct of a flawed economic system. Do you side with Jackie as a visionary entrepreneur, or was her empire built on shaky ground? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I'm eager to hear differing opinions and spark a lively debate!

Kristin Chenoweth Stars in THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES on Broadway | First Look Photos & Preview (2025)

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