The much-anticipated Broadway musical adaptation of Smash, a show that originated as a soap opera about rival actresses vying for a role in a Marilyn Monroe-themed production, has finally arrived. While it boasts impressive performances and catchy music, the new iteration falls short of its original potential.
The creators made significant changes to the story, shifting from a rivalry between Ivy Lynn and Karen to a more farcical plot with new characters and conflicts. This change is jarring for fans who remember the central conflict of the TV series. The dynamic has changed, with Ivy becoming the bigger star and Karen no longer a threat.
The main appeal of Smash remains its talented cast, particularly Robyn Hurder as Ivy, who shines in Alejo Vietti’s retro costumes. Her opening number is a standout, but it’s not enough to save the show from its overall direction. The writers’ decision to incorporate more absurd plot twists and over-the-top musical numbers detract from the production.
However, Brooks Ashmanskas stands out as Nigel, Bombshell’s gay director, delivering a hilarious performance that salvages the show in moments of levity. His sharp writing and comedic timing make him a standout, even amidst the chaos.
Despite its talented cast and catchy music, Smash Broadway musical feels like a parody of old-fashioned musicals. The production gets lost with too many nutty ideas, making it hard to enjoy. However, fans of Brooks Ashmanskas will find his performance alone enough to make the show worth watching.
Smash opened April 10, 2025, at the Imperial Theatre. Tickets and information can be found on smashbroadway.com.
Source: https://nystagereview.com/2025/04/10/smash-marilyn-musical-neither-smash-nor-bomb