Broadway’s ‘Smash’ Returns: A Shocking Reinvention That Will Leave You Stunned!

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It’s a Broadway smash!

The musical being referred to is “Bombshell,” the central fictional musical in the show “Smash,” a fresh stage adaptation of the well-liked TV series that aired for two seasons on NBC from 2012-2013. EbMaster has an exclusive sneak peek at the meta backstage comedy, set to start preview performances on March 11 before its official opening night on April 10 at the Imperial Theatre.

Similar to the TV series, “Smash,” which is famously chaotic as per Vulture’s assessment, a stage adaptation tells the story behind the creation of the musical “Bombshell,” portraying Marilyn Monroe’s life. In an exclusive sneak peek, shot outside the fictional Broadway theater where the show is set to premiere, a glowing marquee displays enthusiastic reviews such as “AMAZING!”, “STUNNING”, and “AMAZINGLY STUNNING!” The center of attention is Marilyn, donning the iconic white dress from “The Seven Year Itch,” surrounded by the entire production team. Notably, Nigel, a well-known theater producer and choreographer (portrayed by Brooks Ashmanskas from “The Prom”), appears to be under pressure. For Broadway enthusiasts, this image is like a game of “Where’s Waldo,” featuring real-life figures from the theater community such as NY1’s Frank DiLella, Irene Gandy, a legendary Broadway press agent, Paul Wontorek from Broadway.com, and Richie Ridge from BroadwayWorld.

Smash” maintains its signature elements such as the chaotic backstage turmoil leading up to opening night and a variety of exciting musical performances, but the stage adaptation will significantly deviate from the TV series. In a playful advertisement for the show, it’s humorously suggested: “If you adored the TV series, it’s just what you crave. And if you didn’t, we’ve made all the necessary changes.

Susan Stroman, a five-time Tony winner, notes that the tone of this musical is significantly distinct from the original TV show. Whereas the series was more melodramatic, this adaptation leans heavily into comedy. The characters are familiar, yet they each have unique backgrounds. While there are several references to the original series, the musical can certainly stand alone as its own production. It’s quite quirky and eccentric.

Robyn Huder, a seasoned Broadway artist with 20 years under her belt and a Tony nominee from “Moulin Rouge,” takes on the lead role as Ivy Lynn (previously played by Megan Hilty in the movie). In the television adaptation, a fierce competition for the role of Marilyn arises between Ivy, a long-time ensemble member aiming for her major breakthrough, and Karen Cartwright (originally portrayed by Katharine McPhee), a fresh talent from Iowa who astounds everyone at her audition and may disrupt the show’s casting decisions. In contrast, the stage production presents Ivy as an already established leading lady with a different backstory.

Ivy Lynn is highly renowned on Broadway, often compared to stars like Sutton Foster and Hugh Jackman. According to Huder, the latest adaptation of her character has progressed from the original TV show in essential aspects. He explains that since we’re now in 2025, we won’t pit two women against each other for drama or engage in a catfight. Instead, the musical aims to promote unity and avoid such outdated tropes.

The acclaimed duo Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, known for hits like “Some Like It Hot” and “Hairspray,” are back to compose the music for an upcoming musical. This production will incorporate their popular tunes from the TV show (such as “Let Me Be Your Star” and “They Just Keep Moving the Line”), along with fresh compositions. Notably, “Let Me Be Your Star,” which was Emmy-nominated, is a captivating diva ballad that seemed tailor-made for Broadway since the series premiere of “Smash” in 2012. However, according to Miss Ivy herself, this number may undergo some changes when it hits the Great White Way.

Huder hints at something extraordinary regarding the song from the stage performance, without revealing too many details. What he can share is that he gets to perform a totally revamped version of it.

As a devoted cinephile, I’ve always been eager to share some exciting news: yours truly, along with Steven Spielberg and Robert Greenblatt, have taken the helm as lead producers for an upcoming musical adaptation of a beloved TV series. For over a decade, dedicated fans have been longing for this project, and we’re thrilled to finally make it a reality. Neil Meron and I were instrumental in producing the original show, while Greenblatt served as the then-chairman of NBC, all playing crucial roles in its initial success. Now, let’s see what magic we can create together on stage!

According to Stroman, the production team is highly engaged. I converse with Bob Greenblatt on a daily basis, and Spielberg frequently drops by. We jot down their suggestions because everything they offer is invaluable.

Starting from Tuesday, ‘Smash’ commences its Broadway rehearsals with Ivy Huder leading the cast. Some characters from the NBC series will be reimagined, with Krysta Rodriguez and John Behlmann taking on the roles of songwriters and book writers Tracy and Jerry, respectively. Kristine Nielsen portrays Susan, the acting coach, while Jacqueline B. Arnold plays Anita, a producer. Bella Coppola is the assistant choreographer Chloe, and Caroline Bowman and Casey Garvin join as ensemble members Karen and Charlie in ‘Bombshell’.

Huder remarks that no one should step into the theater with the expectation of a TV show – it’s full of unexpected twists, turns, and surprises. Reading the script left him utterly astonished because nobody can predict what will transpire.

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2025-01-21 18:20