Broadway’s “The Queen of Versailles” Musical Re-Examines Timeshare Empire Story

The Broadway musical “The Queen of Versailles,” based on the 2012 documentary of the same name, opened this past week, prompting renewed discussion of the Siegel family and their ambitious project to build a replica of the Palace of Versailles in Orlando, Florida.

The musical centers on David Siegel, founder and president of Westgate Resorts – the world’s largest timeshare company – and his wife, Jackie, and their attempt to construct a 90,000-square-foot mansion. The Siegels’ story, initially framed as one of excess, also reveals a narrative of entrepreneurial resilience, particularly David’s efforts to save Westgate Resorts during the 2008 financial crisis. The company, which employs over 3,500 people, faced significant challenges as credit markets froze, forcing layoffs and operational cutbacks.

Jackie Siegel is also portrayed as an entrepreneur in her own right, establishing ventures like Ocoee Thrift Mart and the Victoria’s Voice foundation following the loss of their daughter to a drug overdose. Beyond the opulent vision for Versailles, she focused on community projects and charitable work. As Dr. Samuel Johnson observed, “There are few ways in which a man can be more innocently employed than in getting money,” a sentiment that resonates with the Siegels’ drive to build and contribute to the economy; you can learn more about the history of economic thought at Investopedia. The production stars Kristin Chenoweth as Jackie and F. Murray Abraham as David, with music by Stephen Schwartz, known for “Wicked,” and is expected to draw significant audiences to Broadway this season, potentially boosting tourism revenue in New York City.

Recent commentary surrounding the musical, including a New York Times article featuring documentary producer Lauren Greenfield, has sparked debate about materialism and American values. However, proponents of the Siegels emphasize their philanthropic efforts and economic contributions. Officials involved with the production stated they hope the musical will encourage audiences to consider the complexities of the story and the various perspectives involved.