Idina Menzel defies gravity all over again, flying high in original new musical Redwood.

An inspiring tale of self reflection and communing with nature, Redwood sees grieving parent Jesse take inspiration from the ancient, awe-inspiring redwood trees of California. Centred on the metaphor that the mighty trees take their strength from long, entangled roots, Jesse connects with arborists Becca and Finn to face her feelings over the loss of son Spencer and eventually return home to wife Mel.

The light rock chamber musical features a tight ensemble of only five performers, although technically the massive realistic redwood tree from scenic designer Jason Ardizzone-West counts as something of a sixth character. 

Giant LCD screens curve around the white-floor stage and out into the auditorium, immersing the audience in the truly beautiful video design of Hana S. Kim and lighting design of Scott Zielinski. The unique design features several amazing sequences, including the first sighting of the forest, the climb higher above the trees, the starry night sky, and the blazing forest fire. 

The relatively rare musical not based on IP, Redwood was co-conceived by Menzel and director Tina Landau. Landau also wrote the book and co-wrote the lyrics with composer Kate Diaz. On keys, musical director Julie McBride conducts eight fellow musicians playing Diaz’s light rock arrangements.

At first listen, the score plays out a bit like a series of 11 o’clock numbers in search of a show but there are certainly worse prospects, especially with powerhouse belter Menzel in the lead. Jesse (Menzel) performs in 13 of the 17 songs, four of which are solos. 

Initial storytelling is brisk and involving, slowing down to breathe when the action reaches the redwood forest. Landau draws impassioned performances from the tight company, grounding the moving tale in authentic humanity.  

Making a mockery of Hollywood stunt doubles and safety nets, Menzal joins co-stars Khaila Wilcoxon (Becca) and Michael Park (Finn) in scaling up and down the huge central redwood tree. The trio further impresses performing the “vertical choreography” of Melecio Estrella. Menzel ultimately takes the top prize, singing while hanging upside down. 

In a true above-the-title lead performance, Menzel gives her all to the towering role of Jesse, endearingly the taking the audience with her on a compelling journey of self discovery. In peak form, Menzel’s power belt thrills as she soars through song after song.

Wilcoxon brings salty humour to the indignant crankiness of tough nut Becca. Unrecognisable under bushy long hair and beard, Park brings a mellow serenity to veteran naturalist Finn. 

Zachary Noah Piser brings a full sense of character to Jessie’s deceased son Spencer, bringing the musical home in superb form with the actual 11 o’clock number, “Still”. 

De’Adre Aziza lets the warm love of Mel shine through the long periods of disappointment and confusion when Jesse disappears from her life. 

Running for only two more weeks on Broadway, Redwood will live on in its upcoming cast recording, which is sure to provide inspirational listening, not to mention some new audition pieces for Broadway belters.

A touching and memorable musical, it will be interesting to follow the future of Redwood beyond this Broadway season. 

Redwood was reviewed 8pm Saturday 3 May 2025 at Nederlander Theatre, New York where it plays until 18 May 2025. For tickets, click here.

Photos: Matthew Murphy, Evan Zimmerman