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Bob Martin and Rick Elice, the creative minds behind Broadway’s “Smash,” have shared an exciting update regarding their long-awaited musical adaptation of “The Princess Bride.” In a recent interview with Variety, Martin confirmed that the show is actively being developed, with a significant workshop planned for later this year.
“The show is progressing quite nicely,” Martin stated. “It’s been a long journey — almost a decade, I think. But we are moving ahead with a new team of composers.” While he did not disclose the names of the current songwriters, this team replaces David Yazbek, who was previously involved with the project.
Martin further elaborated, “We are preparing for a substantial workshop towards the end of summer, transitioning into fall. We have been refining the material in various ways over the past few years, and this will be a dedicated time to assess everything we’ve developed.” Both Martin and Elice have linked their names to this project since at least 2019, although plans for a stage adaptation of the beloved film have been in a state of uncertainty for quite some time.
Inspired by William Goldman’s 1973 novel of the same title, “The Princess Bride” film was directed and co-produced by Rob Reiner. The narrative unfolds as a book being read by a grandfather, portrayed by Peter Falk, to his grandson, played by Fred Savage. The film also features notable performances from Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, along with the late André the Giant, Mandy Patinkin, and Billy Crystal.
Currently, Rick Elice and Bob Martin’s latest endeavor, “Smash,” is being showcased at the Imperial Theatre on Broadway. Elice is known for co-creating notable productions such as “Jersey Boys,” “The Addams Family,” “The Cher Show,” “Peter and the Starcatcher,” and “Water for Elephants.” Bob Martin made his mark on Broadway as both an actor and writer, famously credited with the Tony Award-winning book for “The Drowsy Chaperone.” He also co-wrote the book for the musical “The Prom” and is involved with “Boop! The Musical,” which is presently staged at the Broadhurst Theatre.
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www.broadwayworld.com