Back to the Future: The Musical Blasts into Segerstrom – Review

‘Back to the Future: The Musical‘ hits 88 mpg and surpasses 1.21 gigawatts at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa, CA.

Pictured (L-R): Zan Berube (Lorraine Baines), Burke Swanson (George McFly), Caden Brauch (Marty
McFly), Cartreze Tucker (Marvin Berry) and the Company of ‘Back to the Future: The Musical.’
Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman, 2024.

‘Back to the Future: The Musical‘ boards the nostalgia train, expertly bringing the beloved 1985 film to life in a way that is truly innovative. From entering the Segerstrom Center for the Arts until the moment the lights dim, the audience is transported into the high-energy, time-bending world of Marty McFly (Caden Brauch) and Doc Brown (Don Stephenson). The stage design and production are groundbreaking, utilizing cutting-edge technology to create stunning transitions that make time travel possible. The seamless shifts between 1955 and 1985, along with the spectacular use of projections, lighting, and mechanical effects, make the journey through time feel real and utterly immersive. The moment Marty hits 88mph in the DeLorean (something nearly impossible for the original production vehicle) is  magical, and the set itself feels like an integral part of the storytelling.

Last night’s showstoppers were, Bruke Swanson as George McFly and Cartreze Tucker as Mayor Goldie Wilson and Marvin Berry. Swanson is a revelation. He perfectly captures the awkward charm and lovable geekiness of the character while adding his own fresh take, showcasing his true talent by proving out great of a dancer he is in making George McFly a clumsy, stiff, nerd. Tucker is equally remarkable, delivering a performance that makes both Mayor Goldie Wilson and Marvin Berry memorable in their own right. Tucker’s dual roles are masterfully executed, bringing depth, humor, and heart to both characters. These two performers are the reason why I would revisit ‘Back to the Future: The Musical‘ at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

Caden Brauch (Marty McFly) and the famed DMC, of ‘Back to the Future: The Musical.’ Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman, 2024.

The scene-stealer of the night was Emily Applebaum’s dancing. Part of the ensemble, Applebaum brings such energy and skill to every number that it’s impossible not to watch her. Her performances are simply mesmerizing, and she brings a level of grace and passion that elevates the entire production.

Following ‘Back to the Future: The Musical‘, I couldn’t resist revisiting the original film this morning. Zan Berube’s Lorraine Baines reminds us of why we fell in love with the character in 1985. It was a wonderful tribute to the source material, and though I’d wished there had been a few more songs from the iconic original soundtrack beyond, “Back in Time” and “The Power of Love”—the score by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard is enjoyable, and the new musical numbers fit well within the world of the show.

There was a brief moment when the inclusion of the Doctor Who TARDIS, as a playful wink to other science fiction properties, pulled me out of the experience for a moment…mostly because I am not a fan of the ‘Doctor Who‘ franchise. It was an unexpected reference, but it didn’t detract from the overall enjoyment. The musical does an excellent job of paying homage to the film, staying true to the heart and humor of the original while adding something fresh and exciting.

‘Back to the Future: The Musical‘ at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts runs from now through January 5, 2025.

To purchase tickets visit: https://www.scfta.org/.