“Beaches” on Broadway! Beloved Bette Midler and Barbara Hershey Tearjerker Comes to the Stage

Beaches on Broadway: Beloved Bette Midler Tearjerker Comes to the Stage

A timeless tale of friendship that has captivated audiences for decades is set to take center stage on Broadway once again. ‘Beaches’, based on Iris Rainer Dart’s bestselling novel and the beloved 1988 film starring Bette Midler and Barbara Hershey, is getting a musical adaptation for the stage, bringing the touching story to a whole new audience.

The musical is due to have a limited engagement at the Majestic Theatre in New York City, with previews starting on March 27, 2026, and an official opening night scheduled for April 22. The production is set to run until September 6, followed by a national tour across multiple cities.

Leading the cast are Jessica Vosk and Kelli Barrett, reprising their roles from the musical’s world premiere at Theatre Calgary in Canada. Vosk will take on the role of the bold and strong-willed Cee Cee Bloom, originally portrayed by Midler, while Barrett will portray the sophisticated and introspective Bertie White, played by Hershey in the film.

The storyline follows the enduring friendship between Cee Cee and Bertie, from their early days as pen pals to roommates, navigating through life’s ups and downs together. Through dreams, challenges, and heartbreaks, their friendship stands the test of time, even in the face of tragedy.

The musical is co-directed by Lonny Price and Matt Cowart, with a score by Grammy Award-winner Mike Stoller, lyrics by Iris Rainer Dart, and a book by Dart and Thom Thomas, in collaboration with David Austin. The production promises to deliver a moving and emotional experience, staying true to the essence of the original story that resonated with audiences worldwide.

‘Beaches’ has always been celebrated for its focus on female friendship, a theme that was groundbreaking at the time of its release. Despite initial mixed reviews, the film became a cultural phenomenon, cherished by fans for its heartfelt narrative, powerful performances, and unforgettable soundtrack, including Midler’s rendition of “The Wind Beneath My Wings,” which won a Grammy Award.

For Jessica Vosk, this marks a significant milestone as she takes on her first lead role on Broadway. With a successful track record in various productions, including a notable stint as Elphaba in Wicked, Vosk’s portrayal of Cee Cee is highly anticipated. Alongside her, Kelli Barrett, a seasoned Broadway performer, brings her talent and experience to the role of Bertie, adding depth and emotion to the characters’ journey.

As the anticipation builds for the Broadway premiere of ‘Beaches’, fans can look forward to the announcement of additional cast members, creative team details, and the cities included in the national tour. Tickets are set to go on sale in January, with early access information available on the official website for the musical.

In conclusion, the stage adaptation of ‘Beaches’ promises to reignite the magic of this heartwarming story of friendship, resilience, and love. With a talented cast, creative team, and a touching narrative, the musical is poised to create a memorable and moving experience for audiences, capturing the essence of the cherished classic in a new and captivating form.