Introduction to Eurovision on Broadway
Will Ferrell will adapt his own Netflix comedy 2020 Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga into a new Broadway musical. The former Saturday Night Live star performed alongside Rachel McAdams in the film, playing an up-and-coming Icelandic singing duo who represent their country in the popular pan-European music competition.
The Musical Adaptation
In an explanation, Ferrell said: "We are more than excited to bring Eurovision on Broadway. The stage musical is a perfect place to continue our celebration of all things that we love about this amazing and quirky song competition." The new musical version will have a book by Ferrell, Harper Steele, and Anthony King, music by Savan Kotecha, and will be directed by Alex Timbers.
The Creative Team
Timbers added in another statement: “Will Ferrell and Harper Steele are my comedy heroes, and when I saw their joyful film Eurovision during the pandemic, it lifted the spirits during a very dark time." He also stated, "With this adaptation for the stage, I can hardly wait to bring the same mix of heart, spectacle, disrespect, and awe to audiences around the world."
Production and Partnership
Like the film, the stage musical is produced in partnership with the official organization of the Eurovision Song Contest. The contest’s executive supervisor, Martin Green CBE, said: “This is an outstanding team for what I am sure will be an equally outstanding adaptation of a film that the world has loved. Our goal is always to bring the joy of the Eurovision Song Contest to more people worldwide."
Review and Reception
In a three-star review of the film, The Independent’s critic Clarisse Loughrey described the film as "just as silly and unusual as it needs to be, and still pays sincere respect to one of Europe’s great cultural quirks." She added: “While the script from Ferrell and Steele does not always provide the best material, the film works because its lineup is invested in the absurdity of everything.” The film’s cast, including McAdams and Dan Stevens, were also praised for their performances.
