Back to the Future: The Musical lands at the Hobby Center for a limited run through April 5—and if there’s one thing this production proves, it’s that sometimes the most electrifying “character” on stage isn’t a person…it’s the technology.

From the moment the curtain rises, it becomes clear that the true standout of this production is the seamless fusion of scenic design and cutting-edge projection work. This is one of those rare shows where you’re not just watching a story; you’re watching stagecraft push boundaries in real time.

There’s a jaw-dropping moment near the end where the DeLorean literally floats midair, suspended in a way that feels almost impossible. It’s the kind of theatrical magic that makes you lean forward in your seat and think, “How did they do that?” And honestly? I still don’t have an answer—and that only makes it more impressive.

Throughout the show, projections are used not just as background, but as an active storytelling tool. Early on, when we transition into Hill Valley High School, the set rotates in sync with the background projections, creating a cinematic “camera turn” effect that feels like we’re moving through a film rather than watching a stage play. That same technique returns later during the DeLorean’s high-speed sequence, as the streets twist and turn around the car in a visually kinetic moment that builds incredible momentum.

And when the DeLorean approaches 88 miles per hour? The production goes full throttle. Bright red digital speed indicators flash across the stage, layered with projections that simulate acceleration in a way that feels immersive and urgent. It’s theatrical adrenaline.

Another standout sequence involves Doc Brown (David Josefsberg) climbing the clock tower. Through a blend of projections and practical staging, he appears to climb vertically while shifting left and right across the stage. At one point, it genuinely looks like he’s about to fall—and I found myself completely unable to reverse-engineer the illusion. In an era where audiences are often savvy to stage tricks, this moment feels refreshingly mysterious.

The sets themselves are packed with detail, each location offering something visually engaging that pulls you deeper into Hill Valley. Fans of the original film will be happy to know that the musical follows many of the same narrative beats, making it both nostalgic and accessible.

Performance-wise, the cast delivers across the board. Lucas Hallauer brings charm and charisma to Marty McFly, capturing that wide-eyed energy that makes the character so easy to root for. David Josefsberg as Doc Brown leans into the eccentric brilliance of the role, forming a strong and believable dynamic with Hallauer that anchors the show emotionally.

Kathryn Adeline as Lorraine Baines generates some of the biggest laughs of the night, particularly in her hilariously awkward advances toward Marty—completely unaware that she’s flirting with her future son. Each moment lands with the audience, creating a consistent stream of comedic payoff.

Mike Bindeman portrays George McFly with a convincing sense of vulnerability, fully selling the character’s initial lack of confidence before evolving into someone capable of standing up for himself. Opposite him, Nathaniel Hackmann’s Biff Tannen is an effective and imposing antagonist, providing the necessary tension that drives George’s transformation.

Musically, the show captures an energetic, ‘80s-inspired sound that fits the world well. While none of the original songs stood out as particularly memorable to me, they never detract from the experience. And when the show leans into iconic tracks like “Johnny B. Goode” during Marty’s performance with the band near the finale, it delivers a satisfying burst of nostalgia that ties everything together.

At the end of the day, Back to the Future: The Musical thrives on its spectacle, its humor, and its commitment to honoring the beloved film. Even if the music doesn’t fully stick, everything else—from the inventive staging to the engaging performances—more than makes up for it.

If you’re a fan of the original movie, this is an easy recommendation. And if you happen to connect more with the music than I did? That’s just an added bonus.

This is a fun, visually impressive production that proves the future of musical theatre might just be driven by 1.21 gigawatts of creativity.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Theatre Under The Stars' website.