A royal decree banning women from performing onstage sets the stage for romance, rebellion and plenty of theatrical chaos in The King’s Critique, a new musical comedy preparing to make its New York debut this fall.
Rehearsals have begun for the production, which will launch a limited engagement on November 3, 2026, with an official opening night scheduled for November 12 at the Romulus Linney Courtyard Theatre at The Pershing Square Signature Center, located at 480 West 42nd Street in Manhattan.
Produced by Art Lab Productions, led by Meg Fofonoff, and Jordan Fisher Theatrics, led by Jordan Fisher, the musical features music and lyrics by Nat Zegree and a book and lyrics by Eric Holmes. Catie Davis, whose directing credits include Beetlejuice and Moulin Rouge! The Musical, directs the production.
The story centers on King Benjamin, played by Justin Collette, who issues an unusual royal command prohibiting women from performing onstage. Determined to challenge the ruling, Josephine, portrayed by Taylor Iman Jones, develops an elaborate scheme with Sebastian, a charming but unpredictable tenor played by Tony Award nominee Sky Lakota-Lynch.
What follows is a comedic adventure involving theatrical ambition, unexpected complications and a cast of characters whose plans rarely go as intended.
The production features an extensive ensemble of Broadway and musical theater performers, including Donna Lynne Champlin, Matthew Patrick Quinn, Gabi Carrubba, Gilbert L. Bailey II, Bridget Beirne, Nick Cearley, Christian Fary, Timothy Matthew Flores, Amy Jo Jackson, Kamal Lado, Johanna Moise, Geena Quintos and Justin Sudderth.
The creative team also includes choreographer Nancy Renee Braun, scenic designer Paul Tate dePoo III, costume designer Emily Rebholz, lighting designer Cory Pattak and sound designer Jessica Paz. Zegree serves as music director and also contributes orchestrations alongside Ian Chan.
Executive producer Lisa Dozier Shacket joins the producing team, which also includes Anthony Salamon, Ashton Clay and Courtney Peraza.
The musical’s five-song concept album, released in 2025 through Joy Machine Records, is available on streaming platforms, offering audiences an early introduction to the production’s music.
With its unconventional royal storyline, comedic twists and talented theatrical company, The King’s Critique brings a playful new addition to New York’s fall theater season.
Performances begin November 3, with opening night November 12. Tickets are available at KingsCritiqueMusical.com.