
It’s showtime.
Based on the 1988 Tim Burton film “Beetlejuice,” the musical of the same name comes back to Tampa this month.
The performance—opening at Straz Center next week—brings a different take to the original film.
Lydia Deetz, originally played by Winona Ryder, takes the lead in the production as she mourns the death of her mother. The character of Beetlejuice also takes a lead role in the production opposed to the film only giving 20 minutes of screen time for the character.
From the Straz Center blog they add,
“Since Beetlejuice is one of those can’t-take-your-eyes-off-him characters, why not give him more room to repulse in the stage production?,” the Straz Center wrote.
Regional actors coming to Tampa with the production include Ryan Stajmiger as Beetlejuice and Leianna Weaver as Lydia Deetz.
Beetlejuice made its Broadway debut April 25, 2019 before the COVID19 pandemic put a stop to the tour in March, 2020. The musical made its return in April 2022 and toured for the next three years.
In 2019, the musical was nominated for eight Tony Award nominations.
This is the second time the musical hits the center stage in Tampa since 2023.

‘Beetlejuice’ the musical
Time Tue., June 9, 7:30 p.m., Wed., June 10, 7:30 p.m., Thu., June 11, 7:30 p.m., Fri., June 12, 8 p.m., Sat., June 13, 2 & 8 p.m. and Sun., June 14, 1 & 7 p.m. 2026
Location Carol and Frank Morsani Center for the Arts, 21030 Cortez Boulevard, Brooksville
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This article appears in May 28 – June 03, 2026.

