See the DeLorean finale car in flight!!

When Back to the Future first blasted into cinemas in 1985, it didn't just capture the hearts of a generation—it cemented a stainless-steel DeLorean as one of the most iconic vehicles in cinematic history. Decades later, the beloved sci-fi classic has traded the silver screen for the theater curtains, bringing its high-octane energy and 88-mph thrills to live audiences in BACK TO THE FUTURE The Musical.

But how do you translate time travel, plutonium-fueled chases, and a flying car onto a theatrical stage without losing the cinematic magic?

We sat down with Bob Gale, the legendary co-creator of the original film trilogy and the mastermind behind the musical's book adaptation. In this exclusive Q&A, Gale opens up about the jaw-dropping stage illusions, the ego-free collaboration of the creative team, and the surreal experience of watching a piece of film history defy gravity right before his eyes.

The DeLorean is one of cinema's most iconic vehicles. What was your reaction the first time you saw it brought to life on stage, and why do you think audiences are going to be amazed when they see it for themselves?

I was completely blown away! The illusions involving the DeLorean are next-level state-of-the-art, and I never get tired of seeing the car in action with an audience. This is truly the definition of stage magic.  It’s one of those things you have to see for yourself. And even though there are times when you know how we’re creating the effect, you just get sucked into it. I still do, and I’ve probably seen it at least 150 times.

For me, one of the highlights has been sitting in rehearsal with the cast when they see it from the auditorium for the first time. They absolutely know what they’re about to see and how it’s done, but their jaws still drop!
 
Without giving away the secrets, what impressed you most about the creative team's approach to translating the DeLorean's iconic moments from screen to stage?

Director John Rando has a management style which I subscribe to: hire the best people you can and get out of their way!  

These illusions are the product of an amazing confluence of talent: production design, special effects, video effects, lighting, sound and stage management. In figuring out how to pull off the various challenges, everyone left their egos at home and built on everyone else’s ideas toward a common goal.

Every member of the team signed on because they’re all fans of the movie and were willing to give 200% to ensure that what they did would be worthy of being called “Back to the Future.” They succeeded beyond my expectations!

Back to the Future The Musical lands at Mayflower Theatre 8 June – 3 July 2027