Off-Broadway Debut Romy Michele Musical Revives 1990s Cult Classic

The cult classic 1997 film "Romy & Michele's High School Reunion" has been adapted into an Off-Broadway musical, directed by Kristin Hanggi and featuring Laura Bell Bundy and Kara Lindsay as the titular characters. Despite the devotion to the original script by screenwriter Robin Schiff, who also wrote the book for the musical, critics note the adaptation struggles to capture the film's anarchic charm and comedic spirit, with some performances bordering on parody and others feeling wooden and unconvincing. The musical leans heavily on nostalgia, maintaining many original lines and moments, but the stage production's modern digital backdrops and lackluster execution have been criticized for detracting from the era's feel. While the musical celebrates the enduring appeal of Romy and Michele's friendship and their quirky journey to their 10-year high school reunion, it ultimately fails to deliver the same energy and emotional connection as the film, leaving audiences with a sense of forced effort rather than genuine fun. The production, which took over a decade to develop, features a strong creative team and cast but has received mixed reviews regarding its ability to translate the film's unique humor and spirit to the stage. Despite its shortcomings, the show attracted notable attendees and continues to draw interest for its tribute to 90s culture and friendship themes.