Tootsie – About the Show
Highlights of Tootsie – Must-See Moments
Dustin Hoffman’s Iconic Performance Inspires the Broadway Adaptation
The original 1982 Hollywood hit film Tootsie, starring Academy Award winner Dustin Hoffman, became famous for Hoffman’s unforgettable performance in drag. The story of a struggling middle-aged actor who disguises himself as a woman and suddenly rises to stardom captured audiences with humor and heart. On Broadway, the stage version takes that same spirit and delivers laugh-out-loud comedy combined with impressive performances, making it one of the most entertaining gender-bending shows on the theater scene today.
A Feminist Message Beneath the Comedy
While Tootsie is a comedy filled with witty one-liners and hilarious disguises, it also carries a strong feminist message. The show highlights themes of gender equality, women’s empowerment, and the fight for social, political, and economic recognition. This Broadway adaptation reflects the evolving conversation around feminism by portraying a powerful and resilient female perspective through the lens of humor. Widely acclaimed, the production earned 11 Tony Award nominations in 2019, including Best musical, showcasing how a classic comedy can deliver both laughter and a meaningful social statement.
Tootsie – Show info
Show details of Tootsie
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Theater location： Marquis Theatre 210 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036 (Map) |
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Performance Run: Previews: March 29, 2019 Opening: April 23, 2019 Closing: January 5, 2020 |
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Type of the show: Based on a Movie Fun Stunning Songs Stunning Dance |
Tootsie – Story
The Plot / Summary of Tootsie
Michael Dorsey, a 40-year-old actor, dreams of becoming a top performer. However, his stubborn dedication to his own style of acting often leads to clashes with directors, making him infamous in the industry as difficult to work with. Unable to support himself through acting alone, he survives by teaching acting to younger performers and working part-time as a waiter.
One day, his student Sandy Lester, an aspiring actress, asks for his help in preparing for an audition for a daytime soap opera set in a hospital. Despite Michael’s rigorous coaching, Sandy fails the audition. Frustrated and convinced of the unfairness, Michael storms off to confront the producer but is completely dismissed.
Outraged, Michael hatches a plan. The next day, he disguises himself as a woman named “Dorothy Michaels” and auditions for the very same role. To his surprise, he is cast immediately, with everyone believing Dorothy to be a real woman. Complications arise when Michael, still in disguise, falls head over heels for his co-star Julie Nichols, who plays a nurse in the show.
The soap opera becomes a huge success, and Dorothy Michaels turns into an overnight star. Yet, Michael cannot suppress his feelings for Julie. Torn between his secret and his love, he struggles as Julie believes he is truly a woman. Matters get even more complicated when Julie’s father, Les Nichols, and co-star John Van Horn both develop romantic interests in Dorothy, leading to awkward and chaotic situations.
Unable to keep up the double life, Michael decides to reveal his true identity during a live broadcast of the hit show. The shocking confession not only risks his career but also puts his relationship with Julie on the line. Will his honesty cost him everything, or will it open the door to a new future?
Tootsie – Movie
The YouTube trailer of Tootsie
This is a promotional video for the Broadway musical “Tootsie.” You can see how it expresses the essence of womanhood.
Tootsie – Explore, FAQ
Tootsie – Behind the Scenes
What “Tootsie” Really Means
The 1982 film Tootsie, starring Academy Award winner Dustin Hoffman, became a worldwide sensation for its bold comedy and Hoffman’s unforgettable performance in drag. The story of a struggling actor who disguises himself as a woman and accidentally becomes a star resonated with audiences everywhere. The film’s success cemented its place as one of the greatest American comedies.
Actress Jessica Lange, who played nurse Julie Nichols, won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role. The word “Tootsie” itself is an affectionate term meaning “sweetheart” or “darling,” often used when addressing women in a casual, endearing way.
Santino Fontana Wins the Tony Award
For the Broadway adaptation, the lead role of Dorothy was taken on by Santino Fontana, best known as the voice of Prince Hans in Disney’s Frozen. Fontana had previously been nominated for a Tony Award for his role in Cinderella (2009). His seamless performance in Tootsie, moving effortlessly between male and female personas, earned him the 2019 Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical. His performance remains one of the highlights of the production.
From Chicago to Broadway with an Award-Winning Creative Team
Before its Broadway debut, Tootsie had a one-month out-of-town tryout in Chicago from September 11 to October 14, 2018. The production brought together an impressive team, including the composer of the Tony-winning The Band’s Visit and the creative forces behind Kinky Boots and Kiss Me, Kate.
The music and lyrics were written by David Yazbek, who won the 2018 Tony Award for Best Original Score for The Band’s Visit. Yazbek had also been nominated for Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (2005) and Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (2011). His sharp, witty songwriting added a fresh energy to this new musical comedy.
A Dream Team of Designers and Directors
The set design was led by David Rockwell, a renowned architect and designer who has worked on over 20 Broadway productions, including Hairspray and Kinky Boots. Rockwell has multiple Tony nominations and won the Tony Award for Best scenic design of a musical for She Loves Me in 2016.
Direction was helmed by Scott Ellis, an eight-time Tony Award nominee who has directed acclaimed productions such as Kiss Me, Kate. Costume design was by the legendary William Ivey Long, a six-time Tony Award winner with over 100 Broadway credits, known for his iconic work on Chicago, Cabaret, and The Producers.
Together, this powerhouse team elevated Tootsie into a Broadway hit, blending classic comedy with fresh theatrical artistry.
Tootsie – FAQ
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Can I buy tickets for Tootsie (Broadway show) on the day of the show?
Tickets are available for purchase until the day before the show through our booking page. See more details about Tootsie tickets.
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How much are tickets for Tootsie (Broadway show)?
Tickets for the Broadway musical Tootsie start at $52 with our discounted prices. See more details for Tootsie tickets.
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Is the English in Tootsie (Broadway show) hard to understand?
The musical Tootsie is an enjoyable show even if you don’t understand English. We recommend reading the synopsis before you go. For other recommended shows, please refer to the Broadway Musical Selection Guide. You’re sure to find a show you’ll love from among the many musicals in New York.
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Do you have a summary or synopsis of Tootsie (Broadway show)?
The story and synopsis of the Broadway musical Tootsie are introduced in the Tootsie Story section. Reading this beforehand will help you easily understand the storyline.
Tootsie – Review
Review by Kimishige:
Glad I Made It in Time
As a big fan of Dustin Hoffman, I couldn’t miss this show and was happy I made it before closing. It was different from the movie but very entertaining. The lead actor’s singing ability really stood out, with a tone that balanced between a female and male voice in an interesting way. Some of the humor was a bit hard to follow, but overall it was a fun musical experience.
Nov 19, 2019
Review by MyComputer:
So Much Fun
A friend recommended this one. Living in New York, I see musicals from time to time, but this one had me laughing nonstop. The lead had such a radiant smile and a voice that could handle both powerful opera tones and soaring falsettos. I especially loved the neon set showing old New York streets-it brought back so many memories.
Oct 19, 2019
Review by Kenchisa:
More Comedy Than Expected
I hadn’t seen the film beforehand, so I was surprised by the mix of comedy and music. Seeing a big man dressed as a woman was funny, but when he started singing with a powerful Broadway voice, it reminded me how professional this cast really is. The music itself was enjoyable, but honestly, I might have chosen a different show if I had more time. Still, it was a solid experience.
Oct 8, 2019
Review by Shunsuke:
Looking Forward to It
I’m visiting New York next month and already got my tickets here. Since the show was a hot topic at the Tony Awards, I decided to try something different instead of a classic Broadway musical. I know it’s a comedy, but I can’t wait to see what kind of creative staging they bring to the table. Very excited!
Sep 24, 2019
Review by 3 O’Clock Snack:
Amazing Vocals
The lead actor’s singing was simply incredible. Even though my English is not strong, knowing the story helped me fully enjoy the show. It was a fantastic musical experience.
Jul 13, 2019
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