Broadway News
Smash Preview
Smash, the new drama series about the development of a Broadway show, officially premieres on NBC February 7th, but for those of us who just can't wait any longer, the pilot episode is available now-for free!-on iTunes. I watched the episode already and all I can say is, wow. This show is the real thing. And if the subsequent episodes and seasons are as good as the first episode, it will run for a long, long time.
Without giving away too much of the plot, here is an introduction to the main characters of Smash, all multi-layered individuals with tremendous storyline potential.
KAREN CARTWRIGHT, played by Katharine McPhee. The "every girl." Originally from Iowa, she now lives in New York City and spends her days and nights auditioning and waiting tables. The line she utters to her parents (people who wish she would just give up on her dream of being on Broadway and get married and get a real job), pretty much sums up her character's motivation: "Well," she says, "sometimes dreams are hard."
IVY LYNN, played by Megan Hilty. An experienced Broadway performer who is currently in the ensemble of a Broadway musical but yearns to land a lead role. Unlike Karen, Ivy will do whatever it takes to get what she wants-even if she has to sacrifice her dignity to get it.
JULIA HOUSTON, played by Debra Messing. One half of the Marilyn Monroe musical writing team. She is currently in the process of adopting a child with her husband Frank (Brian D'Arcy James), but her works tends to take precedence over her family life.
TOM LEVITT, played by Christian Borle. Julia's writing partner. Very excited about the possibility of their Marilyn musical being produced on Broadway, but not as excited about the prospect of working with Derek Wills, the director whom Tom calls a "terrible human being."
DEREK WILLS, played by Jack Davenport. An indisputably talented director, but also a total ass. The kind of guy who will convince actresses to sleep with him by promising them a role in his show.
EILEEN RAND, played by Anjelica Huston. A successful Broadway producer who throws her undivided attention behind the Marilyn musical, if only to keep her mind off her tumultuous divorce proceedings.
DEV SUNDARAM, played by Raza Jaffrey. Karen's boyfriend. Seemingly perfect in every way: handsome, successful, and obviously head over heels in love with Karen.
ELLIS TANCHAROEN, played by Jamie Cepero. Tom's personal assistant. Bright-eyed, bushy-tailed, and over-eager... but with the potential to be a real conniver.
Don't forget to tune in to Smash, Monday February 6 at 10/9c on NBC. And after watching, check back here for my weekly recaps!
Photo: Smash promotional poster
FACEBOOK COMMENTS