Joy: A Chaotic Musical Requiring More Than Just a Miracle Mop

Broadway‘s “Joy-A New True Musical” Opens to Mixed Reviews: A Story of Invention Marred by a Flawed book

New York, NY (July 20, 2025) – The highly anticipated “Joy-A New True Musical,” chronicling the inspiring journey of a woman who built a business empire through invention, has opened its curtains at the Laura Pels theater, drawing a polarized response from critics.While lead actress Jenni Wolfe is being lauded for her captivating performance and powerful vocals, the production is finding its footing challenged by what many are calling a “serviceable but forgettable” score and an “atrocious book.”

Wolfe,a seasoned performer with a notable track record in shows like “Waitress” and “& Juliet,” shines as the protagonist Joy.Her commanding presence and vocal prowess, particularly in the show’s adult contemporary power ballads, are frequently cited as a major highlight. Though, even her considerable talents, described as “virtuosic efforts,” are reportedly not enough to elevate the narrative.

The primary criticism is directed at the musical’s book, penned by Ken Davenport. Reviewers describe the writing as falling into “broadly silly, sitcom-level style,” particularly in the second act. The plot, which details the aftermath of the success of the titular “Miracle Mop,” is characterized by manufactured crises and a copyright trial that one critic likened to a “cut scene from The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.”

Despite these significant book-related issues, the production strives for a lively pace under the direction of Lorin Latarro. Choreography by Joshua Bergasse, known for his work on “Smash” and “On the Town,” is noted for adding moments of “fun group dances,” including a specific nod to an all-male QVC executive number. The supporting cast, featuring seasoned Broadway veterans like Tony Roberts, Eden Espinoza, and Charl Brown, is acknowledged for doing their best with characters that are described as “broadly drawn, stereotypical.”

In a move mirroring the entrepreneurial spirit of the show’s subject matter, the production has attempted to engage audiences directly, even distributing free Miracle Mops.This tactic, while attention-grabbing, highlights the show’s struggle to connect on a deeper level.

“Joy-A New True Musical” aims to tell an uplifting Horatio Alger-style story of a woman who went on to invent numerous products, accumulating over $3 billion in sales. While the inspirational aspects of her life are present, the execution of the musical narrative is falling short of its potential. The production, running at the laura Pels Theater through august 17, seems to be finding that even a groundbreaking invention isn’t enough to guarantee a flawless Broadway debut.

Evergreen Insights:

The reception of “Joy-A New True Musical” serves as a potent reminder of a fundamental truth in theatrical production: a captivating performance and an inspirational true story can only carry a show so far. The bedrock of any successful musical lies in a well-crafted narrative and a compelling score. Even the most charismatic leading actors, no matter how powerfully they sing, cannot entirely mask weaknesses in the foundational elements of the book and music. This production underscores the critical importance of cohesive storytelling and memorable musical composition in creating a truly resonant and enduring piece of theatre. Furthermore, the blend of a biographical narrative with a comedic, perhaps even farcical, tone, as suggested by the description of the book, presents a delicate balancing act. When this balance is not achieved, as seems to be the case here, the result can be a disjointed experience that detracts from the inherent appeal of the subject matter. The challenge for future productions aiming to adapt similar rags-to-riches or invention-focused stories will be to maintain the integrity of the inspiring journey without sacrificing the dramatic and musical artistry required for a hit.

How did the creators’ prior experience wiht viral videos contribute to the initial success of the *Joy* musical?

The Genesis of Controlled Chaos: Understanding Joy

Joy,the 2023 musical sensation,isn’t your typical Broadway fare. Describing it as “chaotic” barely scratches the surface. Its a whirlwind of vibrant energy, complex characters, and a narrative that demands attention. But what makes this show, created by Anastasia Cole Plavin and josh Sharp, so uniquely captivating? It’s a blend of seemingly disparate elements – a dysfunctional family, a viral video, and a whole lot of unadulterated, messy joy. Understanding the show’s origins is key to appreciating its impact. The musical’s roots lie in a series of viral videos created by Plavin and Sharp, showcasing their eccentric family dynamics. This pre-existing fanbase provided a solid foundation for the Broadway debut.

deconstructing the Plot: A Family Affair Gone Viral

The story centers around the Venables, a family of struggling performers whose lives are upended when a home video of their mother, Joy, goes viral. This isn’t a polished,carefully curated clip; it’s raw,unfiltered,and hilariously awkward. the sudden fame throws the family into the spotlight, forcing them to confront their issues and navigate the complexities of internet culture.

Here’s a breakdown of the core plot points:

1. The Viral Video: The catalyst for the entire story. It’s a moment of pure, unscripted Joy venables, and it resonates with millions.
2. Family Dynamics: The Venables are…complex. Each member has their own ambitions, insecurities, and baggage. The show doesn’t shy away from portraying their dysfunction.
3. Navigating Fame: The family struggles to adapt to their newfound celebrity,dealing with media scrutiny,public expectations,and the pressure to capitalize on their viral moment.
4. Finding Authenticity: Ultimately, Joy is about finding authenticity in a world obsessed with image and performance.

The musical cleverly uses meta-theatrical elements, blurring the lines between the Venables’ reality and the show itself. This adds another layer of complexity and invites the audience to question the nature of performance and authenticity.

Musical Numbers & Style: A Genre-Bending Experience

The Joy soundtrack is as eclectic as the family it portrays. It’s a genre-bending mix of pop, musical theater, and electronic music, reflecting the show’s modern sensibility. Expect high-energy dance numbers, heartfelt ballads, and witty, satirical songs.

Key musical highlights include:

“The Miracle Mop”: The show’s signature song, a ridiculously catchy tune about Joy’s obsession with cleaning.

“Humanity”: A powerful ballad exploring the themes of connection and vulnerability.

“I’m Alive”: A high-octane ensemble number celebrating the joy of being present.

The choreography is equally dynamic, incorporating elements of contemporary dance, hip-hop, and even physical comedy. It’s a visual feast that perfectly complements the show’s chaotic energy. The musical style is often described as a modern take on classic broadway, infused with a distinctly Gen Z sensibility.

The Cast & Creative Team: bringing the Chaos to Life

The success of Joy is largely due to the incredible talent of its cast and creative team. Anastasia Cole plavin and Josh Sharp not only wrote the book and lyrics but also star as fictionalized versions of themselves. Their chemistry is undeniable, and they bring a raw honesty to their performances.

Anastasia Cole Plavin: Co-creator, writer, and star.Her portrayal of Joy Venables is both hilarious and heartbreaking.

Josh Sharp: Co-creator, writer, and star. He brings a sharp wit and vulnerability to his role.

Directed by: Gordon Greenberg, known for his work on Holiday Inn and Big Fish.

Choreography by: Emmy Award winner, Kelly Devine.

The ensemble cast is equally remarkable, bringing a diverse range of talents and personalities to the stage. The creative team’s commitment to authenticity and innovation is evident in every aspect of the production.

joy‘s Cultural Impact: Beyond the Broadway Stage

Joy resonated with audiences as it tapped into a collective desire for authenticity and connection. In a world saturated with curated online personas, the Venables’ messy, imperfect lives felt refreshingly real. The show sparked conversations about family dynamics, internet fame, and the pressures of modern life.

Here’s how Joy made a cultural splash:

TikTok Phenomenon: The show gained a important following on TikTok, with fans sharing clips of performances and creating their own content inspired by the musical.

Critical Acclaim: Joy received positive reviews from critics, who praised its originality, humor, and emotional depth.

Audience Engagement: The show fostered a strong sense of community among its fans, who connected with the characters and themes on a personal level.

Portrayal: The show’s portrayal of a quirky, unconventional family resonated with audiences who felt underrepresented in mainstream media.

Practical Tips for Experiencing Joy

If you’re planning to see Joy, here are a few tips to enhance your experience: