If you had told me that one of my favorite days out in NYC this year would be spent with a wide-eyed cartoon flapper from the 1930s, I would’ve said you were out of your mind—or at least watching too many old reruns. But Boop! The Musical is here to shake up Broadway, and let me tell you… it’s a bop, a boop, and a full-on Broadway blast.
Who’s Betty Boop, Anyway?
For those of us who vaguely remember Betty Boop as the sassy cartoon cutie from black-and-white TV land, here’s the update: she’s back, she’s fabulous, and she’s having a major main character moment. In this reimagined stage story, Betty wants a break from fame and wishes for just one “normal” day. Cue magic, mayhem, time travel (kind of), and one unforgettable trip to modern-day New York City.
Yes, she gets her wish. No, it doesn’t go smoothly. But it goes spectacularly.
The Show Itself: Sparkles, Sass & Showstoppers
From the moment the curtain rises, this musical wraps you in a warm, glitter-dusted hug. The costumes? Pure eye candy. The choreography? Broadway-level fabulous. The music? Think classic jazz vibes with a pop-Broadway twist.
And the star of the show we experienced featured Victoria Byrd as Betty. She manages to channel vintage charm while giving Betty real heart and humor. She’s all “Boop-Oop-a-Doop,” but also girl-next-door if the girl next door had killer stage presence and a wardrobe that looked like it fell out of a dream.
A Family-Friendly Experience That Still Feels Fresh
I brought along two of my teens and both walked out humming songs and quoting lines. There’s just something joyful about this show. It’s not trying to change the world—it’s trying to make you smile. And in this moment in time, I’ll take that over anything “gritty” or “serious.”
Plus, it makes for a fantastic intro-to-Broadway show for younger viewers (or those of us who just like things big, bold, and sparkly).
Should You Go?
YES. Whether you’re a lifelong Betty Boop fan or someone just looking for a fun night in the city that doesn’t take itself too seriously, Boop! The Musical delivers charm, camp, and choreography in all the right doses.
But heads up—it’s a limited run at the Broadhurst Theatre and closes July 13th! So grab your tickets, pop on your best pink, and let Betty remind you what it means to take a day off, take a leap, and just… boop.
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