Broadway’s ‘The Queen of Versailles’ Struggles in Debut Performance

The new Broadway musical, The Queen of Versailles, featuring Kristin Chenoweth, opened at the St. James Theatre in New York on Sunday but has faced criticism for its unfinished feel. According to Associated Press critic Mark Kennedy, the production, which reunites Chenoweth with Stephen Schwartz, the composer of Wicked, struggles to find a cohesive tone. Based on a 2012 documentary about socialite Jackie Siegel and her quest to build America’s largest private home, the musical fluctuates between admiration and ridicule, ultimately missing an opportunity to comment on social issues such as wealth inequality.

Kennedy notes that while the show features extravagant elements reflective of Trump’s America, it lacks memorable songs that could elevate the narrative. Despite a prior tryout in Boston, it still feels like a work in progress, leaving audiences wanting more.

In a different realm of entertainment, Predator: Badlands has topped the North American box office with a remarkable debut of $40 million. This figure surpasses the previous high for the franchise, which was set by the 2004 film Alien vs. Predator at $38.3 million. Written and directed by Dan Trachtenberg, the film also earned an additional $40 million internationally, demonstrating strong performance despite recent challenges in the box office landscape. The film has garnered positive reviews and received an “A-” CinemaScore, marking a successful entry in a competitive market.

On a more philanthropic note, the nonprofit organization CreatiVets is making significant strides in supporting veterans through the arts. Co-founded by Richard Casper, a Purple Heart recipient, the organization is transforming an abandoned church in Nashville into a 24-hour arts center. This center will serve as a community hub and house various programs, including songwriting initiatives where veterans collaborate with Nashville songwriters to express their military experiences. The project has received support from actor and philanthropist Gary Sinise, who has contributed funding through his Gary Sinise Foundation.

In a lighter news piece, Pedro Elias Garzon Delvaux, a fifteen-year-old from Paris, has captured public attention after being photographed outside the Louvre during a recent crown jewel heist. The image, showcasing him in a fedora and vintage attire, sparked speculation online, with many likening him to a detective. Pedro, who enjoys classic detective stories like those of Sherlock Holmes, has embraced his newfound fame while maintaining a down-to-earth perspective as a typical teenager.

As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, new streaming offerings are making headlines. Among the most anticipated releases are Freakier Friday, which reunites Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan, and a limited series thriller titled The Beast in Me, featuring Claire Danes and Matthew Rhys. Gamers can look forward to the launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, while Apple TV is set to premiere the star-studded series Palm Royale.

In a remarkable achievement, Irving Locker, a World War II veteran, has become a published songwriter at the age of 101. His latest song, If Freedom Was Free, was released by Big Machine Label Group and CreatiVets, symbolizing his message that freedom comes at a cost. Locker, who draws inspiration from his life experiences, shares his story through music while enjoying life with his wife of 77 years.

The entertainment industry also saw a celebration of musical talent at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, where Cyndi Lauper delivered a moving rendition of True Colors. Joined by various artists, Lauper paid tribute to fellow inductees and highlighted the contributions of women in music. Salt-N-Pepa performed iconic hits like Push It, while emotional tributes were made to Chris Cornell of Soundgarden and the White Stripes.

In a significant recognition, acclaimed author Salman Rushdie received a lifetime achievement award at the Dayton Literary Peace Prize event in Ohio. This honor comes after his first work of fiction since surviving a stabbing incident three years ago, emphasizing his resilience and dedication to promoting peace through literature.

The recent resignations of top BBC officials, including director-general Tim Davie and news CEO Deborah Turness, underline the broadcaster’s ongoing challenges following criticism regarding the editing of a speech by former U.S. President Donald Trump. The BBC faced backlash for its handling of a speech made on January 6, 2021, which critics argued was misleading in its portrayal of events leading up to the Capitol attack.

As the entertainment world navigates these diverse stories, it remains a vibrant reflection of culture, creativity, and resilience.