Some Like It Hot is a vibrant, jazz-infused Broadway musical that brings to life one of the most iconic comedies in cinematic history. Based on the 1959 film directed by Billy Wilder and starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon, the musical adaptation offers a fresh perspective while retaining the spirit of the original. The show is a celebration of self-discovery, love, and identity, all wrapped in a whirlwind of humor, toe-tapping music, and vintage glamour.

Origins of Some Like It Hot

The musical adaptation of Some Like It Hot was developed by a stellar creative team including Matthew López and Amber Ruffin (book), Marc Shaiman (music and lyrics), and Scott Wittman (lyrics), with direction and choreography by Casey Nicholaw. It premiered on Broadway in 2022 at the Shubert Theatre, receiving critical acclaim and numerous award nominations.

The story is adapted from the original 1959 film, itself inspired by the 1935 French film Fanfare of Love. While staying true to the plot's core, the musical expands on the themes of gender identity and self-expression, providing a modern sensibility that resonates with contemporary audiences.

The Plot: A Classic Tale with a Modern Twist

Set in the Roaring Twenties during the Prohibition era, Some Like It Hot tour follows two struggling jazz musicians, Joe and Jerry, who find themselves on the run after witnessing a mob hit in Chicago. To escape, they disguise themselves as women and join an all-female swing band heading to San Diego.

In their new identities—Josephine and Daphne—the pair experience life from an entirely new perspective. While hiding out, Joe falls for Sugar Kane, the band’s charismatic singer, while Jerry, as Daphne, begins a surprising journey of self-realization. The duo must navigate the chaos of mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and mobsters hot on their trail, all while performing in the swinging rhythm of the jazz age.

Main Characters

• Joe/Josephine – A smooth-talking saxophonist who disguises himself as Josephine. Joe initially uses the disguise for self-preservation but discovers empathy and growth through his female persona.
• Jerry/Daphne – Joe’s best friend and upright bass player. As Daphne, Jerry explores a new dimension of identity and self-expression, forming a bond with millionaire Osgood Fielding III.
• Sugar Kane – A vivacious singer with a dream of escaping her past and finding a kind, loving partner. Sugar is the heart of the band and the object of Joe’s affections.
• Osgood Fielding III – A quirky and wealthy suitor who falls for Daphne. Osgood is charmingly oblivious to traditional conventions and is one of the story’s sources of comic relief and emotional sincerity.
• Spats Colombo – The gangster whose crimes Joe and Jerry witness. His pursuit of the musicians drives the plot’s sense of urgency and danger.

Themes and Messages

1. Identity and Transformation

At the core of Some Like It Hot is a compelling exploration of identity. Joe and Jerry’s disguises lead them into new experiences that challenge their understanding of gender, love, and self. Daphne’s storyline, in particular, explores gender fluidity and the freedom to live authentically, which resonates powerfully in today’s cultural climate.

2. Love and Acceptance

The musical emphasizes that love transcends appearances and expectations. Joe and Sugar’s relationship highlights vulnerability and honesty, while Daphne and Osgood’s unconventional romance breaks norms, culminating in the iconic line, “Nobody’s perfect,” which in the musical gains deeper meaning as a statement of unconditional acceptance.

3. Comedy as Commentary

The show maintains its comedic roots, using humor to challenge social norms and encourage empathy. Physical comedy, clever dialogue, and musical wit make the production as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.

Music and Choreography

The score by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman is a high-energy blend of jazz, swing, and show tunes, capturing the spirit of the 1920s while pushing the story forward. Songs like “You Can’t Have Me (If You Don’t Have Him),” “Dance the World Away,” and “Fly, Mariposa, Fly” exemplify the show’s commitment to both spectacle and substance.

Choreography by Casey Nicholaw is a visual feast of flapper flair, tap routines, and synchronized ensembles. The dance numbers are both period-appropriate and creatively modern, adding dynamism to the musical’s narrative drive.

Reception and Impact

Some Like It Hot was well-received upon its Broadway debut, praised for its vibrant performances, smart updates to the story, and its inclusive message. Critics lauded the show for celebrating diversity and queerness while staying true to the fun and flair of the original film.

The musical received 13 Tony Award nominations in 2023, winning Best Actor in a Musical for J. Harrison Ghee’s portrayal of Daphne, among other accolades. Ghee made history as one of the first nonbinary performers to win a Tony in a lead acting category, underlining the show’s cultural significance.

Creative Innovations

What sets this adaptation apart is its thoughtful modernization. The creative team emphasized character development and internal growth, especially with Daphne’s arc. Instead of treating gender disguise purely for comedic effect, the musical acknowledges its emotional and psychological impact. This deeper exploration lends authenticity and heart to the story, expanding it beyond a lighthearted farce into something poignant and contemporary.

Set Design and Costumes

The production dazzles with its Art Deco set design, transporting audiences to the jazz clubs, train cars, and sunny stages of the 1920s. David Rockwell’s scenic design creates an immersive world that seamlessly transitions between chaotic chases and romantic interludes.

Costume designer Gregg Barnes brings the era to life with flapper dresses, gangster suits, and sparkling performance attire. The transformation of Joe and Jerry into Josephine and Daphne is handled with both comedy and care, using wardrobe as a storytelling device.

Why It Matters Today

Some Like It Hot stands out as a musical that blends nostalgia with progress. It retains the charm of a beloved classic while embracing inclusivity and deeper emotional truths. At a time when conversations around gender and identity are at the forefront of cultural discourse, the show feels both relevant and revolutionary.

Its approach to gender identity, particularly in portraying Daphne’s journey, serves as a beacon of visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals. Rather than treating queerness as the punchline, it becomes the heart of the narrative, offering audiences a chance to see themselves represented with dignity and joy.

Audience Experience

The musical invites audiences into a world of laughter, love, and liberation. Whether one is drawn by the dazzling costumes, the high-energy dance routines, or the heartfelt performances, there’s something for everyone. It’s a show that reminds us of the importance of empathy, the power of reinvention, and the thrill of living life as our truest selves.

Conclusion

Some Like It Hot is more than a musical comedy—it’s a jubilant celebration of identity, resilience, and love. By reimagining a familiar story through a modern lens, the production creates something both timeless and timely. With its unforgettable characters, swinging score, and bold redefinition of gender and romance, this Broadway gem proves that sometimes, the hottest stories are the ones with the most heart.

As the curtain falls, one thing is clear: Some Like It Hot is not just about escaping the mob—it’s about escaping the boxes society tries to put us in. And in that journey, it’s not just Joe and Jerry who transform; it’s all of us, watching from the seats, who walk away a little freer.