Isabella Esler – Beetlejuice

By starrymag | August 16, 2023

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

 

Q) What was it about the production of Beetlejuice that intrigued you to be a part of the show?

 

A) I’ve always been a fan of the movie, so I was really interested to see how such an iconic story can get turned into a musical. I think the music is what intrigued me the most about this show. It has such a fun soundtrack with great songs that really made me want to be a part of the show! I found out about this show, like many other people online, where it kind of blew up on TikTok.

 

Q) Lydia Deetz is an iconic character. Does it take you getting into costume to slip into her affectations?

 

A) I think definitely getting into costume helps a lot with that because it’s all part of the small things that add to the experience of it all. The costume, the lighting, the set, and the other characters really add to that.

 

Q) Has the way you’ve played Lydia changed since the beginning of the tour?

 

A) I think the main thing that has changed is that I’ve become more comfortable in my choices for the character. At the beginning of the run, we’re all just getting used to the eight show a week schedule and getting used to each scene and songs and also how the audience responds to everything. It takes some getting used to and some trial and error.

 

Q) What are some of your pre-show rituals? 

 

A) I’m usually the first one at the theater because I like to take a little time to just sit and relax in my dressing room without getting ready first. I like to warm up just a little bit with my singing straws for about five minutes. Usually, I’m just taking my time when getting ready.

 

Q) Which of the wonderful songs for this production remains a favorite for you and why?

 

A) Definitely “Home.” I always thought that song was so beautiful and honestly a super great song to sing. It’s just such a pivotal moment for Lydia and I think that number really expresses how Lydia feels and what she wants. It has real heartwarming moments as well.

 

Q) Do you have a lyric or line that holds a special place in your heart?

 

A) “I, Myself, Am Strange and Unusual” is just such an iconic line both in the movie and musical. It’s cool seeing how the audience reacts to that line since it’s such a popular line in the movie.

 

Q) I have to ask for details on the levitation scene. I imagine it’s not very comfortable.

 

A) It looks uncomfortable but, honestly, it’s not that bad. We have basically a seat that I sit on that is hidden. The levitation is very quick, so I don’t think I experience any discomfort because I’m focusing on singing.

 

Q) Beetlejuice is currently touring the country. How do you shake off a long day of performing the show?

 

A) I tend to go to bed pretty late because I have so much adrenaline right after the show, so I usually watch a TV show or play a video game until I go to bed.

 

Q) What do you think it is about the Broadway version of this special film that has made it such a fast fan favorite?

 

A) I think adding more details to Lydia and Beetlejuice’s story adds a lot to it. For Lydia, just creating this beautiful story arc and development for her, especially being a young teen, I think a lot of people gravitate towards that. I also think the entire atmosphere of the show is very fun. The set and lighting really add to the “spooky” vibe of the show.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of the wonderful work you do on stage?

 

A) Thank you so much!! It really means the world to me seeing all of these amazing people coming to support me and my castmates and meeting all kinds of people around the country!