Get ready to have your mind blown—the Broadway sensation Back to the Future is rolling into Dayton, and it’s not just a show; it’s a full-blown spectacle! Picture this: 11 massive trucks hauling in everything from DeLoreans to DeLights (yes, the lighting is that epic). But here’s where it gets controversial—is this time-traveling tale just nostalgia, or is it a timeless story that still speaks to us today? Let’s dive in.
The story? Marty McFly, our lovable protagonist (originally played by Michael J. Fox in the film), accidentally zips back to 1955 in a time machine crafted by the eccentric Doc Brown. When he messes with the past, he’s in a race against time to fix the present, escape the clutches of history, and—you guessed it—get back to the future. Sounds familiar? Sure. But this stage adaptation adds a fresh twist with new songs, while keeping the classics like ‘The Power of Love’ and ‘Johnny B. Goode’ that’ll have you tapping your feet.
And this is the part most people miss—this isn’t just a rehash of the movie. It’s a 2022 Olivier Award-winning musical that’s been meticulously crafted for the stage. Bob Gale, one of the film’s creators, even ensured theaters have booster seats so the little ones can enjoy the show too. How’s that for family-friendly?
Now, let’s talk about the villain we love to hate: Biff Tannen. Nathaniel Hackmann, who originated the role on Broadway, brings Biff to life in Dayton—both as the power-hungry high school bully in the ’50s and his older, equally obnoxious self in the ’80s. But here’s the twist: Hackmann doesn’t just play Biff as a one-dimensional bad guy. He digs into the character’s humanity, asking us to empathize with the pain that drives Biff’s actions. Bold move? Absolutely. But it’s this complexity that makes the story resonate. After all, aren’t we all a mix of good and bad impulses?
Hackmann’s favorite moment? When Marty meets his father as a teenager and has to teach him how to be brave. Sound relatable? It should. Whether you’re a parent or a kid, this dynamic hits home. And let’s be honest, who hasn’t felt like their kid is catching up to them in some way?
Behind the scenes, lead stage manager Eric Sprosty is the unsung hero keeping this juggernaut running. With 1,000 light cues, 260 video cues, 400 sound cues, and 200 automation cues, this show is a technical marvel. But here’s the kicker: Sprosty lives out of two suitcases, constantly on the move. Is this the dream life, or is it chaos? You decide.
The logistics are mind-boggling: 56 people travel with the show, 100 local stagehands are hired in Dayton, and there’s enough copper cable to wrap around the Earth. Oh, and did we mention the 126 wigs and 30 quick changes during the performance? It’s a wonder anyone keeps track.
But here’s the real question: Why does Back to the Future still matter? Hackmann nails it: ‘It’s ubiquitous. It touches on themes—father and son, young love, man versus himself—that anyone can relate to.’ Is it just nostalgia, or is there something deeper? We’re betting on the latter.
So, will you be there? Back to the Future hits the Schuster Center in Dayton from December 2–7, with tickets starting at $53. And if you’re a die-hard fan, don’t miss the pre-show history lesson or the Stage & Sip event on December 4. But before you go, tell us—what’s your take? Is Back to the Future a timeless classic, or just a trip down memory lane? Let’s debate in the comments!
