As BEETLEJUICE takes the stage, Washington Pavilion brings new additions for anniversary season

This paid piece is sponsored by Washington Pavilion Management Inc.

The first thing to know about the first show in the 2023-24 Pavilion Performance Series is that you’re going to leave laughing.

BEETLEJUICE kicks off the Washington Pavilion’s 25th anniversary series with eight performances Tuesday through Oct. 1.

“It’s the most fun show to start off the season – just a hilarious show that will help us celebrate,” said Regina Ruhberg, director of performances for Washington Pavilion Management Inc.

Inspired by the beloved 1988 Tim Burton film, BEETLEJUICE tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes.

“It is a show with adult humor and some strong language so keep that in mind,” Ruhberg said. “It’s very funny, but it’s not designed to be a kids show in the way that ALADDIN will be later this fall.”

Watch some highlights from the show here:

The BEETLEJUICE-inspired experience will deliver for guests as soon as they arrive at the Washington Pavilion.

“We’ll have some fan art exhibited in the main lobby, and we’re encouraging everyone to dress up as their favorite character – or just go in stripes or a little goth outfit,” Ruhberg said. “From the music to the costumes and set design, this really is a show that’s all about fun.”

Click here to choose your tickets.

BEETLEJUICE leads off arguably the Washington Pavilion’s most exciting Performance Series in history. For the first time, the season includes two weeklong runs – ALADDIN will be here in November – plus fan favorites including TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR and MEAN GIRLS.

Plus, there are bonus shows: I AM, HE SAID – A Celebration of Neil Diamond on Oct. 26, AWAY IN THE BASEMENT: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas in December, THE CHER SHOW in April and Broadway favorites ANNIE and STOMP.

“Even if you think you don’t like musical theater or you’ve never been to the Pavilion before, there’s bound to be something you love in this lineup,” Ruhberg said.

“And because it’s the 25th anniversary season, we’re going to be announcing events throughout the next eight or nine months, so stay tuned for that. I would say on some of these shows with limited performances, tickets are being reserved very quickly so definitely plan ahead and make sure you’re securing a seat now.”

This season also will bring a number of other engaging additions, starting with BEETLEJUICE.

Cast and crew talkbacks

Hear directly from company members what it’s like to put on a show and tour the nation. After the BEETLEJUICE shows Sept. 27 and 29, there will be a brief changeover and then some of the cast and crew will come down to the orchestra level for a question-and-answer session with the audience.

“You’re welcome to come down front or stay in your seat, and it’s a really fun and interactive way to learn more about Broadway, touring and this industry,” Ruhberg said. “It’s fascinating to hear about life on the road and what it takes to put on a performance like you’ve just watched.”

The talk generally is 15 to 20 minutes “so it’s short and sweet, and you can come and go as needed,” she added.

The Washington Pavilion plans to offer the talkbacks for all shows this season and moving forward.

“We want to have more engagement with our guests and our visiting company members,” Ruhberg said. “The BEETLEJUICE team is here a full week, so the more we can get them out and have our patrons learn about live entertainment the better.”

Digital playbills

Immerse yourself in the show with this next-generation playbill being debuted for the Performance Series this year.

“This is a more interactive experience than a physical playbill,” Ruhberg said. “If you’re interested in learning more, there are links throughout. You can buy tickets through it and click on advertisements.”

A web link also will be sent to ticketholders before the show, “so you can read the actors’ bios and familiarize yourself before coming to the performance,” she added. “Plus, it’s helping us go green for the future by not printing thousands of playbills.”

More places to eat, drink

Lines for a beverage or snack should be shorter at the Performance Series this year.

“We have more bars set up, including some specifically for nonalcoholic offerings, so you can easily grab a soda or water and candy, and hopefully that will move the lines faster because we want to focus on convenience,” Ruhberg said.

“Plus, the WP will be open, so if you want to grab a bite to eat, that will be a great option. Our hope is that when you’re here, you’re not spending time in line. You’re able to eat, drink, socialize and engage with the show.”

Extras for arriving early

Come to the Washington Pavilion ahead of the performance and you’ll be able to tour the Visual Arts Center for free with your show ticket.

Grab a cocktail, use your ticket to get into the VAC, and explore eight galleries, including photography exhibits, a gallery celebrating the 20-year anniversary of SculptureWalk and the South Dakota Governor’s Biennial Art Exhibition, featuring work from nearly 70 South Dakota artists.

To learn more

For a look at the full 2023-24 Pavilion Performance Season and to buy tickets, click here.