Julia Mattison and Noel Carey, the talented composers behind the Broadway debut of ‘Death Becomes Her’, recently spoke exclusively to PEOPLE about their journey in bringing this beloved film to life on stage. The duo, who met during their college years at Emerson College, have been nominated for a 2025 Tony Award for Best Original Score for their adaptation of the 1992 film starring Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn.
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In an interview with PEOPLE, Mattison and Carey shared their excitement and gratitude for the success of ‘Death Becomes Her’. They described the experience as a culmination of years of hard work and dedication to their craft. With the show receiving critical acclaim and garnering 10 Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical, the duo’s creative talent and unique vision have been widely recognized in the theatre community.
Since its opening last November, ‘Death Becomes Her’ has been captivating audiences with its fresh and fearless score, which seamlessly blends various musical genres. The show’s eclectic soundtrack, featuring brass Broadway numbers, emotional ballads, and catchy pop tunes, has been celebrated for its versatility and innovation. One particular song, “Hit Me,” has even gone viral on TikTok, showcasing the widespread appeal of the musical.
Mattison and Carey’s journey to bringing ‘Death Becomes Her’ to Broadway was not without its challenges. As relatively new composers in the industry, they faced stiff competition and had to prove themselves through a rigorous audition process. However, their undeniable talent and passion for the project ultimately earned them the opportunity to create the musical’s memorable score.
The creative collaboration between Mattison and Carey was integral to the success of ‘Death Becomes Her’. Together, they crafted a soundtrack that captured the essence of the film while adding their own unique flair. From the show-stopping number “Falling Apart” to the cleverly titled “For the Gaze,” they demonstrated their ability to create music that resonates with audiences and enhances the storytelling experience.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Mattison and Carey persevered in their work on ‘Death Becomes Her’. The forced hiatus from live theatre provided them with the time and space to explore their creativity and refine their vision for the show. As a result, they were able to bring their dream of staging a successful Broadway production to fruition.
As the Tony Awards approach, Mattison and Carey are already winners in their own right. They reflect on the impact of ‘Death Becomes Her’ beyond Broadway, envisioning its longevity in future tours, cast recordings, and regional productions. The success of the musical has opened doors for their career, with endless possibilities for future projects and collaborations.
In the words of the show’s stars, the sky’s the limit for Mattison and Carey. Their innovative approach to musical theatre and their ability to connect with audiences on a profound level have set them apart as rising talents in the industry. As they continue to make their mark on Broadway and beyond, their journey with ‘Death Becomes Her’ serves as a testament to the power of creativity, determination, and unwavering passion in the world of theatre.