Obviously, one of the major problems with "Carrie: The Musical" has nothing to do with how good or bad it is. For general audiences (which you must have to run a show for any substantial length of time), the perception is on a par with "Jaws: The Musical" or "The Exorcist: The Musical." It immediately raises eyebrows, and not in a good way.
Also, whether this adaptation is campy or not, the popular film had those overtones, so audiences will assume the musical follows suit. Even before they see it, most people will think this is going to be silly and forgettable even if it tries to scare them. And if they happen to hear it's not campy and a "serious" or "realistic" approach, then they'll wonder why it's not like the movie.
All of these perceptions have nothing to do with the musical. I suppose if strong word of mouth had persisted with unqualified raves, people would come (the general folks). But without them, once you exhaust the curiosity factor, it's time to close up shop.
"Jaws is the Citizen Kane of movies."
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22