‘Smash’ Musical Set for Broadway Debut Following Intensive Workshop
The highly anticipated Broadway musical ‘Smash,’ inspired by the popular NBC television series, is progressing towards its Broadway debut in the 2024-25 season. A significant development in this journey is the upcoming six-week workshop, which will involve a comprehensive stage and choreography rehearsal with an orchestra. This workshop will culminate in five performances before selected audiences.
Directed by Susan Stroman, the musical boasts an impressive cast, including Brooks Ashmanskas, known for ‘The Prom,’ Alex Brightman of ‘Beetlejuice’ fame, Yvette Nicole Brown from ‘Community,’ Bella Coppola from ‘Six,’ and newcomer Nihar Duvvuri. Other notable names include Casey Garvin from ‘Some Like it Hot,’ Robyn Hurder of ‘Moulin Rouge,’ Kristine Nielsen, Krysta Rodriguez, known for her roles in ‘Into the Woods’ and Netflix’s productions, and Jonalyn Saxer from ‘Back to the Future.’
The ensemble also features seasoned performers such as Wendi Bergamini, Giovanni Bonaventura, Jim Borstelmann, Zachary Downer, Tiffany Engen, Ashley Blair Fitzgerald, Megan Kane, Caleb Marshall-Villarreal, Connor McRory, JJ Niemann, Tanairi Sade Vazquez, Brian Shepard, Sarah Sigman, Jake Trammel, and Katie Webber.
Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, who composed songs for the original TV series, are also behind the score for the ‘Smash’ musical. The score will include popular tunes from the series along with new compositions.
The production team comprises notable figures like Steven Spielberg, Robert Greenblatt, and Neil Meron. Meron expressed his excitement, noting the strong public affection for the original series and the eagerness to transform it into a “funny, joyous stage musical.” Greenblatt highlighted the importance of the workshop and rehearsal process, allowing for audience feedback and fine-tuning of the production.
The workshop will be a crucial phase, giving the creative team the opportunity to refine and perfect the musical with real-time audience reactions. The involvement of an accomplished cast, many of whom are Tony and Emmy nominees, adds to the anticipation for this Broadway adaptation of ‘Smash.’ The production promises to bring the drama and excitement of the television series to the stage, with a combination of established and new songs, fully staged and choreographed under the direction of Susan Stroman and choreographer Josh Bergasse.
