“Smash to Close on Broadway After Just Over 2 Months”
The Broadway production “Smash,” inspired by the NBC television series of the same name, has announced its impending closure, set for later this month. This decision follows a lukewarm reception at the recent Tony Awards, where the musical failed to garner significant accolades despite its initial promise. The closing performance at the Imperial Theatre will take place on June 22, as confirmed by reports from various entertainment outlets, including Media News Source.
“Smash” premiered on April 10 and features an original score crafted by Marc Shaiman and Scott Witt. The musical, which tells the tumultuous journey of creating a Broadway hit focused on the iconic Marilyn Monroe, sought to capture the essence of the television series that originally aired from 2012 to 2013. Despite its artistic aspirations, the production encountered challenges that ultimately hindered its success.
According to industry sources, the show achieved a peak gross of approximately million during the week ending April 20. However, recent figures indicate a decline, with the production earning only 6,161 last week, while the Imperial Theatre operated at 66% capacity. This downward trend raises concerns about the show’s long-term viability in a competitive landscape dominated by other theatrical offerings.
Critics have weighed in on the musical’s shortcomings. Some reviewers have noted the lack of innovation and surprise within the adaptation, arguing that the high caliber of talent involved has not been leveraged effectively. The original “Smash” series developed a cult following and received six Emmy nominations, including one for Outstanding Choreography. Fans of the show faced disappointment as the stage adaptation failed to meet expectations, underscoring the complexities of transitioning successful television narratives to the stage.
Despite receiving two Tony nominations—Best Choreography for Joshua Bergasse and Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role for Brooks Ashmanskas—”Smash” notably did not secure a nomination for Best Musical. Furthermore, the production was unable to perform during the Tony Awards broadcast, despite expressing interest in participating.
As the closing date approaches, the production team and cast of “Smash” reflect on their brief but tumultuous journey in the spotlight of Broadway, leaving audiences to ponder the difficulties of turning a beloved television series into a theatrical experience that resonates with audiences.
