When most people in the UAE hear “Beetlejuice,” they think of Tim Burton’s quirky 1988 cult-classic film. But on Broadway, Beetlejuice took on a whole new life — literally — as a big, bold, and wildly inventive musical that became a phenomenon with fans across the world. And now, for the very first time, audiences in the UAE will get to experience the cult-favourite live on stage from 20-30 November at Etihad Arena, Yas Island.
So why has this show been hailed as one of the most original, unmissable musicals of the decade?
Beetlejuice opened on Broadway in 2019 and quickly built a passionate fan following. When the show announced its closing in 2020, fans rallied online with such devotion that the musical was brought back to Broadway by popular demand — a rare occurrence in theatre history.
Tim Burton’s World Reimagined for the Stage
Fans of the original film will recognize its offbeat humor, gothic aesthetic, and outrageous characters — but the stage version takes the world of Beetlejuice even further. With dazzling sets, jaw-dropping illusions, and eye-popping costumes, the musical transforms Tim Burton’s cinematic imagination into a live, immersive spectacle.
What sets Beetlejuice apart is its razor-sharp wit. The title character often breaks the fourth wall, interacting with the audience in a way that feels almost like stand-up comedy. One moment you’ll be doubled over in laughter, and the next, you’ll find yourself unexpectedly moved to tears. That ability to balance outrageous humor with moments of raw emotion makes it a rare theatrical experience.
Characters You’ll See Yourself In
Part of the magic of Beetlejuice lies in its characters, who feel deeply relatable. Lydia, the misunderstood teenager, is every one of us who ever felt like an outsider growing up. Barbara, the anxious homemaker-turned-ghost, represents the people pleasers who finally decide to break free and transform. Even Beetlejuice himself, for all his chaos, reflects that voice in all of us that just wants to break the rules and live without filter.
Songs like “Say My Name,” “Dead Mom,” and “That Beautiful Sound” have racked up millions of views and streams online, with clips from the show going viral on TikTok and Instagram. The score also pays homage to the film with global favourites “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)” and “Jump in the Line” — songs audiences across generations will instantly recognize.
In Short: Say His Name, Don’t Miss the Show. With a strictly limited 10-day run, this is one haunting the UAE won’t want to miss.
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