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Star-Studded Opening Night for Smash on Broadway

On April 10, 2025, the theatrical world gathered at the Imperial Theatre in New York City for the much-anticipated opening night of Smash, a new musical adapted from the beloved NBC television series. The show, which revolves around the fictional creation of a Marilyn Monroe bio-musical titled Bombshell, promises a vibrant stage experience akin to its small-screen predecessor.

Among the esteemed guests celebrating this occasion were actors Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick, who graced the red carpet alongside their 13-year-old twin daughters, Tabitha Hodge and Marion Loretta Elwell. The family showcased their style, with Parker donning a sophisticated all-black ensemble featuring a long coat over a lace-detailed dress and a sparkling skirt, while Broderick opted for a smart blue suit complemented by a paisley tie.

The twins also embraced the event’s glamour: Tabitha Hodge impressed in a green dress paired with a turquoise coat, while Marion Loretta Elwell shimmered in a black dress, topped with a cream coat. Their coordinated looks added a delightful touch to the festive evening.

This year marks 28 years of marriage for Parker, 60, and Broderick, 63, a milestone they will celebrate in May. Their longstanding friendship with Smash creators Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman underscores their dedication to the project. The couple attended the premiere of the original NBC series back in 2012, highlighting their continued support over the years.

Shaiman and Wittman, both Tony, Emmy, and Grammy winners known for their work on acclaimed productions like Hairspray and Mary Poppins Returns, have contributed original songs for the fictional Bombshell musical. These compositions, including hits like “The 20th Century Fox Mambo” and the Emmy-nominated “Let Me Be Your Star,” have been seamlessly integrated into this stage adaptation, which features a fresh comedic narrative crafted by book writers Rick Elice and Bob Martin.

The cast of Smash is led by a talented ensemble including Robyn Hurder, Brooks Ashmanskas, and Krysta Rodriguez, among others. The production harnesses the creative vision of director Susan Stroman and choreographer Joshua Bergasse, who aims to elevate the musical numbers from the original series while staying true to its spirit. Financially backed by producers Robert Greenblatt, Neil Meron, Steven Spielberg, and EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson, this revival is poised for success.

Aside from their daughters, Parker and Broderick are also parents to 22-year-old son James Wilkie, who is actively pursuing a career in acting. Interestingly, at an event earlier this month, Broderick shared that one of his daughters has expressed a strong disinterest in following in their family’s artistic footsteps, stating she is “repelled” by the idea of performing.

For those looking to experience the magic of Broadway, tickets for Smash are currently available, inviting audiences to witness this exciting new chapter in theatre history.

Source
people.com