Michael Arden on Directing The Lost Boys, Navigating Controversy, and Future Projects

Michael Arden, director of the upcoming Broadway musical The Lost Boys, discusses his career, creative process, and handling of controversies in a Vogue interview. Arden, who also co-produces and co-designs lighting for the show, recalls his childhood wonder at big musicals like Phantom of the Opera and Jesus Christ Superstar. He reveals he initially disliked the 1987 film but was drawn to its tonal weirdness and queer subtext, envisioning the vampires as a band and emphasizing the family story. Arden is also directing The Queen of Versailles, which faced controversy, and previously won a Tony for Parade, which was picketed by white supremacists. His production of Maybe Happy Ending, which earned him a second Tony, faced scrutiny over recasting a main role. Arden is adapting Happy Feet for the stage with tap choreographer Ayodele Casel and puppeteer Basil Twist, and working on West, a Huckleberry Finn sequel set during the Gold Rush and American Indian Wars, with Native writers. He discusses his lighting design philosophy, working with band The Rescues on the score, and his earnest approach to theater. Arden reflects on his Tony speech reclaiming the word "faggot," the challenges of fundraising for Maybe Happy Ending, and his belief in creating inclusive stories. The interview took place at Julius' bar in the West Village four days before The Lost Boys opens on Broadway.