The Broadway musical The Queen of Versailles, starring Kristin Chenoweth, is set to conclude its run earlier than anticipated, with its final performance slated for January 4, 2026. The production opened on November 9, 2025, at the St. James Theatre but has already received a wave of unfavorable reviews, prompting the early closure announcement.
Mixed Reviews Prompt Early Closure
Despite its lackluster critical reception, the musical has managed to perform well at the box office, reportedly generating over $1 million in weekly revenue shortly after its debut. The announcement of the closing date, made via the musical’s official Instagram account, aims to attract more viewers during the holiday season. The post invited fans to secure tickets before the final curtain falls, emphasizing the show’s limited run.
The Queen of Versailles is based on the 2012 documentary of the same name, which chronicles the true story of a Florida couple aspiring to build an extravagant mansion during the financial crisis of 2008. The musical adaptation premiered on October 8, 2025, before its official opening the following month. Critics have noted a significant disconnect in the production, with some describing it as suffering from an “identity crisis.” They argue that the show struggles to find its direction, leading to a lack of cohesion in its narrative.
Critical Reception and Audience Response
While some reviewers praised the first act for its engaging elements, others felt that the second act was overly drawn out, diminishing the overall impact. The mixed reviews have highlighted both strengths and weaknesses of the production, with a notable focus on the musical numbers. Critics from well-regarded publications expressed concern that the songs failed to resonate, contributing to the show’s challenges.
The early closure of The Queen of Versailles serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of Broadway, where even star-studded productions can fall short of expectations. As the musical gears up for its final performances, it will be interesting to see how ticket sales respond in the coming weeks.
For those wishing to experience the show before it departs from the Broadway stage, tickets are available through the official channels. The closing announcement has sparked a sense of urgency among fans, eager to witness Chenoweth’s performance in a production that, despite its trials, remains a part of Broadway’s vibrant tapestry.
