On February 9, 2026, it was officially announced that Practical Magic, the 1998 supernatural romantic comedy that starred Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, is being adapted into a musical stage production. The musical will feature an original score by two-time Grammy-winner Norah Jones and producer/songwriter Gregg Wattenberg. This marks the next chapter in the story’s transformation from a bestselling novel to a cult-classic film—and now to a highly anticipated live stage show.
The project is being developed in collaboration with Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures and is being co-written by Alice Hoffman, the author of the original Practical Magic novel, and playwright Peter Duchan. Tony Award-nominated director Maria Friedman is set to take the helm of the production, while the score will combine Jones’ rich musical style with new compositions. The musical will blend pop, jazz, and folk influences to tell the story of two sisters who navigate their witchcraft heritage and the complications of love.
Practical Magic: From Book to Film to Stage
Based on Alice Hoffman’s bestselling 1995 novel, Practical Magic centers on the Owens sisters, Gillian and Sally, who come from a long line of witches. After the tragic death of their parents, the sisters struggle with the legacy of their family’s magic and a curse that haunts them. The 1998 film adaptation, directed by Griffin Dunne, was a moderate box office success and has since become a cult classic, celebrated for its blend of comedy, romance, and the supernatural.
Now, nearly 30 years later, the story is being reimagined for the stage. The adaptation offers the opportunity to explore new dimensions of the beloved characters and themes. While maintaining the core essence of the film, the musical will give fans a fresh perspective on the Owens sisters, their familial bonds, and their magical journey.
A High-Profile Musician Takes the Lead
The involvement of Norah Jones, whose career spans multiple genres, is one of the most exciting elements of this adaptation. Known for her soulful blend of jazz, pop, and Americana, Jones has won numerous Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year for her debut album Come Away With Me. This marks her first venture into composing music for the stage, and expectations are high for her contribution to the musical. Alongside Gregg Wattenberg, who has worked with artists like OneRepublic and Train, Jones’ musical score is expected to bring an emotive and immersive sound to the production.
The duo’s music will add layers of depth to the story, bringing the magic of the Owens family to life with a mix of upbeat numbers and soulful ballads. The project has already garnered significant attention for its potential to bring Jones’ rich musical style to the world of musical theatre, blending modern sensibilities with traditional Broadway elements.
Why It Matters in 2026 Pop Culture
This stage adaptation of Practical Magic is part of a broader trend of nostalgic reboots of beloved films and books being brought to the stage. From Mean Girls to Beetlejuice, the stage has become a new home for many iconic films, and this musical looks set to follow that trend, offering a nostalgic yet innovative experience for fans.
One of the major aspects of this adaptation that sets it apart is the representation of female empowerment. The film’s focus on the Owens sisters’ bond and the exploration of women in magic speaks to contemporary conversations about gender roles and women’s autonomy, making it highly relevant to today’s audiences.
Additionally, the success of the musical will likely impact the broader conversation about representation of Latin and Afro-Latin cultures on the stage. Although not a direct focus of the film, the new adaptation will incorporate elements of folklore and family dynamics that may add to the conversation surrounding cultural storytelling on Broadway and in live performance.
A Growing Trend of Film-to-Stage Adaptations
The success of film-to-stage adaptations in recent years has sparked a new wave of interest in repurposing popular movie franchises into live theatrical productions. These adaptations often introduce new audiences to familiar stories, while giving long-time fans an opportunity to experience their favorite films in a new medium.
Practical Magic, with its strong emotional core, supernatural themes, and memorable characters, is poised to become another success in this genre. Broadway has already witnessed successful adaptations like The Lion King and Hairspray, and as the entertainment world continues to blend genres, more film adaptations are expected to make their way to the stage.
What’s Next for Practical Magic
While casting and specific production details remain under wraps, anticipation is already building for this musical. It is expected to debut in late 2026, with a potential run in New York City and tours across the U.S. The success of Practical Magic will depend not only on its faithful rendering of the beloved story but also on how it brings fresh musical energy to the stage, capturing the magic that made the original film so enduring.
For fans of the original film, Norah Jones, or musical theatre in general, Practical Magic promises to be an exciting addition to the entertainment landscape—an enchanting blend of nostalgia, music, and live performance.