Jaws 50th Anniversary Celebrated with Hit Play at North Shore Theatre

Experience ‘The Shark Is Broken’ at North Shore Theatre’s Jaws 50th Anniversary Celebration

North Shore Music Theatre presents the Jaws 50th anniversary play “The Shark Is Broken,” bringing behind-the-scenes movie magic to Beverly this May

Jaws 50th Anniversary Play Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Drama

Film buffs and theatre enthusiasts alike have a rare opportunity this spring as North Shore Music Theatre presents the acclaimed Jaws 50th anniversary play “The Shark Is Broken” from May 2-11, 2025. This production celebrating the 50th anniversary of the groundbreaking film “Jaws” at North Shore Theatre brings the behind-the-scenes drama to life with remarkable authenticity.

The award-winning one-act play, which found success on both Broadway and London’s West End, recreates the tense dynamics between the three stars of the original film – Robert Shaw, Richard Dreyfuss, and Roy Scheider – as they endured the notoriously troubled production of what would become one of cinema’s most influential blockbusters.

North Shore Theatre Hosts Jaws Anniversary Production with Personal Connection

What makes this Jaws 50th anniversary play at North Shore Theatre particularly special is its connection to film history – co-writer Ian Shaw penned the play about his own father, actor Robert Shaw, who portrayed the unforgettable shark hunter Quint in the original film. This personal perspective adds depth to the production as it explores the complex relationships between the three lead actors during the challenging shoot.

“The Shark is Broken is a must-see for fans of the original film, fans of behind-the-scenes movie making stories, and anyone who loves a great comic play,” says Bill Hanney, NSMT’s owner and producer, who was also one of the producers of the 2023 Broadway production.

Jaws Anniversary Play Journeys from North Shore Theatre to Martha’s Vineyard

In a fitting tribute to the film’s legacy, this Jaws 50th anniversary play will begin at North Shore Theatre in Beverly, Massachusetts before moving to Martha’s Vineyard – the actual filming location of “Jaws” – for a summer run at the Martha’s Vineyard Performing Arts Center. This homecoming, 50 years after filming, creates a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to experience the story where it all began.

A Tale of Hollywood Friction and Unexpected Friendship

“The Shark Is Broken” dives deep into the tumultuous waters of major motion picture production. The play humorously explores how the film’s three stars bonded, argued, drank, and gambled while enduring endless production delays – most notably caused by the constantly malfunctioning mechanical shark (affectionately nicknamed “Bruce” by the crew).

The talented cast features Timothy W. Hull as Robert Shaw, Jonathan Randell Silver as Richard Dreyfuss, and Josh Tyson as Roy Scheider, with understudies Kevin Loreque and Jacob Louchheim rounding out the company.

Award-Winning Creative Team Reunites

This production brings together many members of the original Broadway and West End creative teams, including:

• Guy Masterson (Director – Broadway/West End)
• Duncan Henderson (Scenic Design – Broadway/West End)
• Rebecca Glick (Costume Coordinator & Additional Costume Design)
• Jeff Greenberg (Lighting Design)
• Adam Cork (Sound Design And Original Music – Broadway/West End)

Ticket Information and 70th Anniversary Season Details

“The Shark Is Broken” kicks off North Shore Music Theatre‘s expanded 70th Anniversary Season. Tickets range from $45-$65, with performances running May 2-11, 2025. Evening shows are Friday and Saturday at 8 pm, with matinees Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm.

Special discounts are available for groups of 10 or more, and kids ages 4-18 save 50% at all performances. $25 Student Rush tickets are also available.

The 2025 mainstage season will continue with “Waitress” (June 3-15), “The Wizard Of Oz” (July 8-20), “Grease” (August 12-24), “Rent” (September 16-28), “The Cher Show” (October 21-November 2), and the annual production of “A Christmas Carol” (December 4-21).