Get ready to dive into the behind-the-scenes world of one of the most iconic movies of all time. “The Shark Is Broken” brings the legendary mechanical predator from Steven Spielberg’s “Jaws” to life on the Broadway stage. Opening tonight for a 16-week engagement, this comedy takes you aboard a fishing vessel reminiscent of the 1975 film, complete with a hilarious and neurotic Richard Dreyfus, a dead-ringer for his late father Robert Shaw, and a peacemaking Roy Scheider.
Directed by Gus Masterson, the production features a stunning set by Duncan Henderson, transporting you to the salty air of the ocean. The lighting and video designs by Jon Clark and Nina Dunn add an immersive touch, making you feel like you’re right there on the boat. Unlike the mechanical shark, “The Shark Is Broken” moves swiftly, keeping you engaged and entertained throughout its 95-minute runtime.
The play delves into the troubled shoot of “Jaws” off Martha’s Vineyard in 1974, a story that has become legendary in Hollywood. With a young director, a worried studio, and three actors passing the time with drinking, snorting, and bickering, the behind-the-scenes details have been widely known for decades. Yet, the play still manages to captivate with its finely detailed characterizations and storytelling skill.
Fans of the film will be delighted by the attention to detail on the Broadway stage, from the set design to the cast’s uncanny resemblance to the original actors. The play pays homage to the film without ever crossing into parody, creating a nostalgic and enjoyable experience. Adam Cork’s evocative soundscape adds to the atmosphere, immersing you in the watery and late-night mood.
While “The Shark Is Broken” may not provide the same thrills as the film, it offers a charming and gentle tale that will leave you with a smile. It may feel a bit out of its depth on Broadway, but it’s a hidden gem that deserves to be discovered. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique and entertaining production.
Title: “The Shark Is Broken”
Venue: Broadway’s Golden Theatre
Director: Guy Masterson
Written By: Ian Shaw and Joseph Nixon
Cast: Alex Brightman, Colin Donnell, Ian Shaw
Running time: 95 min (no intermission)
