Britney Spears Brings Her Magic to Broadway in Enchanting Musical Journey

Britney Spears Brings Enchanting Fairy-Tale Musical to Broadway

A Journey Back to Where it All Began

Britney Spears, the pop sensation known for her chart-topping hits, has returned to Broadway with a new jukebox musical titled “Once Upon a One More Time.” This musical marks a full-circle moment for Spears, who started her career as a theater kid and even worked as an understudy in an off-Broadway production at the tender age of 10. Now, three decades later, her iconic songs are the soundtrack to this fairy-tale-inspired show, which opened at New York’s Marquis Theatre in late June.

A Celebration of Britney’s Pop Career

“Once Upon a One More Time” tells the story of six fairy-tale princesses who reclaim their narratives after reading Betty Friedman’s feminist bestseller, “The Feminine Mystique.” The musical cleverly weaves together approximately two dozen of Spears’ most beloved songs, including “Lucky,” which explores yearning for more than a traditional happily ever after, and “Womanizer,” in which the princesses defy the archetype of the two-timing Prince Charming. The show also features show-stopping moments, such as Simard’s deadpan Stepmother performing a sultry rendition of “Toxic” and dancing in a feather boa for “Work Bitch,” reminiscent of Spears’ memorable 2001 MTV VMA performance.

A Fitting Love Letter to Britney

Directed and choreographed by Mari Madrid and her husband Keone, “Once Upon a One More Time” is a celebration of Britney Spears herself. The musical is brimming with callbacks and references to the pop star’s iconic moments, with little butterflies sprinkled throughout and Cinderella donning her signature mock neck and side part. The cast even recreates iconic dance moves from Spears’ “Oops!… I Did It Again” music video, choreographed by Tina Landon. The audience’s recognition and exuberant response to these moments create a thrilling atmosphere in the theater, as fans revel in honoring Britney’s legacy.

A Brand-New Story Chosen by Britney

It was Spears herself who approached Broadway producers James Nederlander and Hunter Arnold with the idea for a jukebox musical based on her music. However, she wanted it to be a fairy tale and not a biographical representation of her own life. This creative direction was a deliberate choice to tell a brand-new story that could captivate audiences in a different way. The project underwent years of development, with Spears actively involved in the process. Even though the cast did not have the opportunity to meet her face to face, the joy on Spears’ face during early workshops reassured them that they were creating something she would genuinely appreciate.

A New Chapter Post-Conservatorship

“Once Upon a One More Time” is Britney Spears’ first major project since the end of her conservatorship in November 2021. For over a decade, Spears was under the legal control of her father, Jamie Spears, who had authority over her personal and financial decisions. This period severely limited her artistic freedom and live performances. With the conservatorship dissolved, Spears now has the opportunity to participate in projects like this Broadway musical. The show’s representative confirms that it was fully authorized and licensed by Spears after the conservatorship ended, allowing her to profit from it and any future productions.

A Celebration of Freedom Nightly

While Spears has yet to attend a performance of “Once Upon a One More Time,” the cast eagerly awaits the possibility of her presence. She has shown her support for the musical through a public endorsement on her Instagram account, describing it as “funny, smart and brilliant.” The cast members, despite some skeptics who question her control over social media, are delighted by Spears’ approval and believe that they have honored her vision in their creative process. For them, this musical is a way to celebrate her freedom every night, and they feel a strong connection to her as an artist.

Editorial: A Tribute to Britney and the Power of Art

The arrival of “Once Upon a One More Time” on Broadway is not just a showcase of Britney Spears’ pop legacy but a testament to the enduring power of artistic expression. Through the fusion of fairy tales and feminist ideas, this musical creates a compelling narrative that resonates with both Spears’ fans and theater enthusiasts. It offers a unique opportunity for audiences to reflect on the impact of Spears’ music and its ability to empower and inspire.

An Invitation to Celebrate

For fans and lovers of Britney Spears, “Once Upon a One More Time” is an occasion to celebrate her journey and artistic contributions. This show serves as a reminder of what makes her music so timeless and beloved, even as she has faced personal and legal challenges. It is a chance for her fans to rally together and express their unwavering support for her.

Looking Forward

As Spears embarks on this new chapter of her life, it is important to recognize the significance of her creative freedom. The end of her conservatorship has allowed her to pursue artistic endeavors once again, marking a profound milestone in her career. It is our hope that this musical will pave the way for more opportunities for Spears to continue sharing her talent with the world.

In conclusion, “Once Upon a One More Time” is not only a Broadway production but a celebration of Britney Spears’ resilience and enduring influence. Through its enchanting storytelling and infectious music, the musical pays tribute to her legacy while honoring her desire for a brand-new narrative. It is a joyous reminder of the power of art to uplift and inspire both the artist and the audience.