“Smash” Takes Center Stage: A Broadway Revival with Star Power
After a decade-long hiatus, the beloved NBC series *Smash* is set to dazzle audiences once again—this time in the form of a Broadway musical. Premiering on March 11 at New York City’s Imperial Theatre, the adaptation promises a fresh take on the story of rival actresses vying for the coveted role of Marilyn Monroe in a fictional bio-musical titled *Bombshell*. In a delightful twist, the feuding dynamic between the lead characters Karen and Ivy, initially portrayed by Katherine McPhee and Megan Hilty on television, will be reimagined with a more comedic flair by the creative team of Rick Elice and Bob Martin.
The musical features the iconic song “Don’t Forget Me,” composed by the Tony Award-winning duo Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, which has become a beloved showtune since its debut in *Smash*’s second season. In a teaser video, audiences can witness a pivotal moment where Ivy, played by Tony nominee Robyn Hurder, arrives to find her understudy Karen, now embodied by Caroline Bowman, singing her signature number during a rehearsal. Tension simmers, but the overall tone of the show is set to be lighter and more humorous than the original, promising a delightful experience for both new viewers and die-hard fans.
The production is helmed by Tony-winning director Susan Stroman, with choreography by Emmy Award winner Joshua Bergasse. The ensemble cast is packed with Broadway heavyweights, including two-time Tony nominee Brooks Ashmanskas and veterans Krysta Rodriguez and John Behlmann, ensuring a vibrant and dynamic stage presence.
Adding a touch of glamour to the production is the inclusion of EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson in the producing team, marking a full-circle moment since she appeared as a guest star in season two of the television series. Hudson joins lead producers Robert Greenblatt, Neil Meron, and Steven Spielberg, further bolstering the show’s star-studded heritage.
As *Smash* gears up for its Broadway debut, anticipation is building for how this beloved series will translate to the stage. The musical aims not only to capture the essence of the original but also to evolve it into a new theatrical experience, making it a must-see event this spring. For those who adored the original series, or those just looking for an entertaining night out, this revival promises to deliver both nostalgia and fresh excitement.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Variety, BroadwayWorld
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