JOY is an uplifting musical based on the true story of entrepreneur and inventor Joy Mangano. Her journey—also told in the 2015 film JOY, starring Oscar nominee Jennifer Lawrence—now comes to life on stage. From single motherhood and financial struggles to building a business empire, Joy’s story shows the power of resilience and determination. Don’t miss this inspiring celebration of a woman who never gave up and redefined the American Dream!
Wolfe gives her all throughout and sells “A Better Way,” the de rigueur 11 o’clock empowerment anthem, as effectively the real Joy pitched her product. But what does it say about the show that a mop giveaway to some audience members provides one of the biggest flashes of excitement?
Unfortunately, the show isn’t just one act but rather two, its second half completely squandering its theatrical momentum with a descent into narrative hokiness. Despite a terrific performance by Betsy Wolfe in the title role, the awkwardly titled Joy: A New True Musical needs some serious mopping up.
| 2025 | Off-Broadway |
Off-Broadway Premiere Off-Broadway |
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