Jasmine Amy Rogers (Betty Boop) and Ainsley Melham (Dwayne) in Boop!
Photo: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman
### Unveiling Betty Boop: A Radioactive Diva
**Who is Betty Boop?** Beyond the iconic merchandise and vivid imagery on lunchboxes, the true essence of this animated legend is often lost in translation. Recognizable by her signature curls, striking red flapper dress, and playful demeanor, Betty has been a cultural touchstone since her inception. While most people recall her captivating persona—**a flirtatious, independent spirit,** full of verve—few recognize the richer, deeper layers of her character. Now, the new musical **Boop!** seeks to tap into those layers, transforming Betty from a mere animated figure into a complex and relatable character.
### A Broadway Evolution
Set to the vivid backdrop of Broadway, **Boop!** attempts to breathe life into Betty Boop’s character through an exciting narrative arc. Drawing on the popular storytelling framework of “**A Stranger Comes to Town,**” this production mirrors the playful whimsy of films like **Barbie** and **Elf**, while inviting audiences to witness **Betty’s transition into a multidimensional woman.** With the creative endorsement of Fleischer Studios, the musical directs its focus on Betty’s evolution from a mere studio puppet to a relatable figure seeking autonomy.
#### The Journey Begins
Jasmine Amy Rogers takes the stage as our enchanting protagonist, bringing Betty’s legendary charisma to life. Channeling the energy of a classic vaudeville star, Rogers dazzles audiences with her performances in numbers like “**A Little Versality,**” showcasing her impressive dance skills against choreographer **Jerry Mitchell’s** backdrop. Betty finds herself yearning for a more authentic existence beyond the glamor of Hollywood, pushing her to seek an escape to **New York City**—a journey laden with comedic twists and turns.
### Confined in Comic Con: The Unexpected Twist
Upon arriving in contemporary New York, the tables turn dramatically. The city that exalts celebrities seems indifferent to Betty’s existence, presenting an ironic twist as she moves through **Comic Con** unnoticed—aside from a devout fan, teenager **Trisha** (Angelica Hale), who sees beyond the costume and recognizes her true iconic status.
In this lively setting, **Dwayne** (Ainsley Melham), a seemingly unimpressed bystander with striking blue eyes, dismisses Betty as just another cosplayer. Yet, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that in this alternate New York reality, Betty’s presence does spark nostalgia among many, including Dwayne’s quirky family, which mirrors the dramatic dynamics typical of a late-90s trope.
#### The Unraveling Obsession
The family drama quickly escalates, revealing that everyone on stage possesses their own connection to Betty Boop, transforming her from being overlooked to becoming an object of wild obsession. As these characters navigate their personal and political ambitions—like **Raymond** (Erich Bergen), the aspiring mayor—the undercurrent of Betty’s narrative gradually shifts towards territory laden with social commentary.
### The Inner Conflicts
Despite **Boop!**’s bright and lively moments, the narrative’s undertones raise questions about brand management and cultural co-opting. While it introduces **feminist themes**, the production stops short of deep exploration, opting instead for feel-good affirmations of Betty’s universal appeal without engaging in substantial critique. The narrative hints at Betty’s own struggles with identity, particularly around the male gaze and the societal expectations placed upon her, only to sidestep a more profound engagement in favor of a Broadway romance.
### The Visual Journey
In the visual representation, **David Rockwell’s** set design captures the retro charm of Betty’s cartoon beginnings, contrasting vibrantly with the sterile flatness of LED screens. While the choreography attempts to bridge different eras, the overall aesthetic lacks coherence, presenting a vivid but occasionally overwhelming spectacle. Brilliantly dynamic dance numbers mix with jarring visual elements, raising questions about the effectiveness of this modern adaptation.
### The Verdict
Despite its ambitious goals, **Boop!** ultimately feels like a collection of engaging moments that never quite forms a cohesive narrative. Rogers’ charm and the energetic choreography are undeniable highlights, evoking nostalgia for Betty while reminding us of her lasting significance over decades. Yet, the musical grapples with its premise and aesthetics, leaving audiences longing for a more thoughtful exploration of Betty’s essence beyond just her **“It” quality.**
For those curious about this innovative Broadway adaptation, **Boop!** runs at the **Broadhurst Theatre,** promising fun and flair, even if it falls short of fully grasping the iconic character we’ve come to love.
