Renovated Olney Stage Debuts with High-Energy ‘Some Like It Hot’
Olney Theatre Center opens its newly renovated Bernard Family Theatre with the Tony-winning musical adaptation of Some Like It Hot. The production largely follows the film’s plot, with Joe and Jerry disguising themselves as Josephine and Daphne after witnessing a gangland shooting and joining an all-girl band. The review praises the show’s lively song-and-dance numbers, strong performances, and showbiz spectacle as a fitting debut for the updated venue.
Olney Theatre Center’s updated Bernard Family Theatre launches with the 2022 Tony-honored musical based on Billy Wilder’s 1959 movie. Matthew Lopez and Amber Ruffin wrote the book, while Mark Shaiman and Scott Wittman supplied music and lyrics.
Joe and Jerry flee mob boss Spats Columbo after a shooting by becoming Josephine and Daphne and joining Sweet Sue’s female band. The review praises kinetic numbers, strong vocals, and colorful second-act costumes as a fitting debut.
The reopening could draw audiences to Olney and the surrounding Maryland arts scene, giving local performers and designers more visibility. A high-profile musical may encourage theatergoers to return to live venues and support renovation investments. It may also spark renewed interest in the film and stage adaptation, especially among fans of classic Hollywood and contemporary musicals. These effects are speculative and depend on ticket demand and community engagement.