The twists and turns surrounding a musical based on Roxette's music have been many. Gessle has rejected previous offers because the script was not good enough, including one that focused on cancer during a period when his partner Marie Fredriksson was ill.
When Unsworth came in as director, it was about one thing: preserving the Roxette spirit.
It was one of the first conversations I had with Per, about capturing the Roxette feeling, what would that feeling be? For Per, it's a lot about having fun at concerts. At the same time, they've made songs that evoke incredibly strong emotions.
Full of drama
The result was a musical that builds on both parts.
We wanted the audience to laugh while also acknowledging the fact that Roxette is associated with some of the biggest "break-up ballads" of all time. The atmosphere is "feel-good" from the early 90s when they had their heyday, says Unsworth.
The script is based on bestselling author Jane Fallon's novel "Got you back" from 2008 – a dramatic love triangle.
The danger with musicals is that many people only come to listen to the music. That's why we wanted a story that would balance out the music.
Surprises for fans
Another challenge has been to attract both die-hard Roxette fans and musical enthusiasts.
We want to reach out to everyone, regardless of whether you like Roxette or not, but we'll also offer a little extra to all fans. We've woven in some of the lesser-known songs. So, if you're a real fan, there are some surprises in both costumes and melodies. It's also a small tribute to Marie.
With two days to go until the premiere at Malmö Opera, Unsworth believes they will succeed in conveying the Roxette spirit. The tickets are almost sold out until December, and Gessle has expressed his satisfaction.
He's been an important part of the process. He's been very present, but also trusted us a lot. He realized that musicals aren't his area of interest and turned to others instead. I was fascinated by the idea of creating something he would appreciate.
Has he said anything about the result?
He's said he thinks it's going to be a great musical.
The world premiere of the musical "Joyride" is on September 6, 2024.
Klas Abrahamsson wrote the original script based on bestselling author Jane Fallon's novel "Got you back" and Roxette's songs. Guy Unsworth then wrote a new script based on this.
Guy Unsworth is the director, and David Woodhead is the set designer.
Jessica Marberger, Marsha Songcome, and Alexander Lycke play the lead roles.
Marie Fredriksson and Per Gessle formed Roxette together in 1986 and a few years later became world-famous with songs like "The Look" and "It Must Have Been Love". Marie Fredriksson passed away in 2019 after a long illness due to cancer.
Source: Malmö Opera
