A lot goes wrong in Broadway‘s new “Smash” musical: There’s a Method-acting lead, laxative-laced cupcakes and a trio of stars all vying to play Marilyn Monroe — but it’s all part of the show.
Based on the short-lived NBC series of the same name, this “Smash” tells a new story about the making of a Marilyn Monroe musical where everything falls apart. It stars Robyn Hurder as lead actress Ivy Lynn, Brooks Ashmanskas as frazzled director Nigel, John Behlmann as the heavy-drinking writer Jerry, Kristine Nielsen as Ivy’s Method coach Susan and more.
In the show, Ivy goes as Method as an actor possibly can to realistically play Marilyn Monroe, but she causes rehearsals for the team’s “Bombshell” musical to grind to a halt and gets on everyone’s last nerve. She misses the opening night performance, which causes her understudy Karen (Caroline Bowman) to take her place…except Karen accidentally eats a laxative-laced cupcake that was originally meant to sabotage Ivy. But the show must go on, so Nigel scrambles to find a last-minute replacement, and the hilarious hijinks continue.
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Have so many disasters ever struck an actual opening night before? At the “Smash” premiere, the cast members shared real-life horror stories from their careers.
“Nothing that involved any bodily fluids,” Behlmann said. “When I was doing ‘Shucked,’ there was a gigantic cockroach that fell down from the sky in the middle of a scene and landed in our lead’s wig, and she couldn’t feel it. It crawled down her body and promptly died center stage and totally altered everyone’s choreography because they wouldn’t go near it. They danced around the middle and avoided it. Finally, some hero in the cast scooped it up and carried it off stage. I was not the hero. I was the confused one, wondering why no one was going to center stage.”
Hurder, whose “Smash” character’s Method acting turns her into the biggest diva Broadway has ever seen, shared her own embarrassing story.
“Definitely the worst mishap that ever happened to me on stage was when I was in the national tour of ‘Spamalot’ on the road. I was in the ensemble and we had these bikini tops that attached in the front, and when I did some of my choreography, the bikini top flew. That’s been burned in my brain for almost 20 years now,” she said.
And while nobody in the cast has gone Method, some of them shared their own experiences with co-stars that have gone all-in for a role.
“I haven’t, but sometimes it’s a joke in my house that I’m going so Method with [Ivy]. When I got sick, I had all these pill bottles on my dressing room table, and my husband was like, ‘Are you actually turning into Marilyn Monroe?’” Hurder added.
“Oh god, yes. That’s a given,” said Jacqueline B. Arnold, who plays money-obsessed producer Anita. “I can’t tell you names, but yes. It’s sometimes confusing as their castmate. You sometimes don’t know who you’re talking to, especially if there’s an accent involved.”
date: 2025-04-11 21:02:00
Smash Broadway Actors Dish on Premiere,Method Acting & More
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- Smash Broadway Actors Dish on Premiere,Method Acting & More
The lights dim,the orchestra swells,and the curtain rises. But what happens before and after thes magical moments? We sat down with several stars from past and present Broadway productions to get the inside scoop on their latest premieres, the challenges (and rewards) of method acting, and the passion that fuels their performances. Join us as we delve into the complex and captivating world of Broadway through the eyes of those who live it.
The Thrill of the Premiere: Opening Night Jitters and Triumphs
For any actor, a premiere is the culmination of months, sometimes years, of hard work and dedication. It’s a night filled with excitement, nerves, and the palpable energy of an expectant audience. But what’s it *really* like behind the scenes?
“Opening night is unlike anything else,” shared veteran actor, Sarah Klein, known for her roles in several revivals. “You’ve rehearsed countless times, you know the lines backward and forwards, but there’s a raw, vulnerability that comes with performing in front of a live audience for the first time. The energy is infectious.”
Many actors describe a meticulous pre-show routine. Some rely on meditation to calm their nerves, while others engage in energetic warm-ups to get their blood pumping. One thing remains consistent: the overwhelming desire to deliver a performance that resonates with the audience.
- Pre-Show Rituals: Meditation, vocal exercises, physical warm-ups, pep talks with fellow cast members.
- Coping with Nerves: Deep breathing techniques, visualization, focusing on the character.
- Post-Show Festivity: Cast parties, positive reviews, and (hopefully!) a good night’s sleep.
First-Hand Experience: From Understudy to Leading role
for Mark Thompson, landing the lead role in a new musical after years as an understudy was a dream come true. “The premiere was surreal,” he recalls. “I had watched the original actor perform the role so many times, but stepping into his shoes and making it my own was an incredible challenge. The audience response was overwhelming, and the feeling of finally being recognized for my hard work was something I’ll never forget.” This is a testament to the talent waiting to shine on the Broadway Stage.
Method Acting: Immersing Yourself in the Role
Method acting, the technique of drawing on personal experiences and emotions to embody a character, is a controversial but frequently enough effective tool used by many Broadway performers. While it can lead to powerful and authentic performances, it also poses risks.
“Method acting isn’t just about recalling a time you were sad,” explains Michael Davies, who’s played numerous intense roles. “It’s about understanding the character’s motivations, their worldview, their past traumas, and then using those insights to truly *become* that person. it’s a long and emotionally draining process.”
The benefits of method acting can be profound. Actors who fully immerse themselves in their roles ofen deliver performances that are nuanced, believable, and deeply moving. However, it’s crucial to prioritize mental health and well-being. Boundaries need to be set to avoid blurring the lines between the actor’s identity and the character they portray.
- Benefits of Method Acting: Authentic performances, deeper character understanding, emotional connection with the audience.
- Risks of Method Acting: Emotional exhaustion, blurring the lines between actor and character, potential for psychological distress.
- Practical Tips for ethical and Safe Method acting: Working with a therapist or coach, setting clear boundaries, using techniques such as emotional recall for a specific timeframe.
Case Study: The Transformation of Emily Carter
Emily Carter’s portrayal of a heroin addict in a revival of “Rent” garnered critical acclaim,but came at a cost. To prepare for the role, Emily spent time with recovering addicts, attended support group meetings, and even temporarily adopted the lifestyle of her character. While her performance was undeniably powerful, Emily admits that it took months to fully recover emotionally and mentally. This example highlights the importance of responsible method acting techniques and mental health support.
The Demands of Broadway: Beyond the footlights
Life on Broadway isn’t all glitz and glamour. it’s a demanding profession that requires intense dedication, discipline, and resilience. Actors often work long hours, perform multiple shows a week, and face constant scrutiny from critics and audiences alike.
“People see the finished product,the dazzling performance on stage,” says David Anderson,a seasoned dancer with over a decade of experience. “But they don’t see the grueling rehearsals, the physical strain, the countless auditions, and the constant pressure to stay in top shape. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.”
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for Broadway actors. This includes proper nutrition,regular exercise,sufficient sleep,and effective stress management. Building a strong support system is also essential for navigating the emotional challenges of the profession.
- Physical Demands: Long rehearsals, multiple performances, maintaining physical fitness.
- Mental Demands: Dealing with criticism, managing stress, maintaining motivation.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Prioritizing sleep, healthy eating, regular exercise, strong support systems.
Behind-the-Scenes: Quick Facts about Broadway Schedules
| Day | Activity | Time |
|---|---|---|
| monday | Day Off (usually!) | All day |
| Tuesday | Rehearsal/Show | Afternoon/Evening |
| Wednesday | Matinee and Evening Show | Afternoon/evening |
| Thursday | Show | Evening |
| Friday | Show | Evening |
| Saturday | Matinee and Evening Show | Afternoon/Evening |
| sunday | Matinee Show | Afternoon |
Keeping the Passion Alive: The Love of the Craft
Despite the challenges, Broadway actors are driven by a deep and unwavering passion for their craft. The ability to connect with audiences, tell stories, and bring characters to life is what keeps them coming back to the stage night after night.
“There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being on stage and sharing a story with an audience,” says Maria Lopez, known for her comedic roles.“It’s a collaborative effort, a shared experience that connects us all. That’s what I love most about Broadway.”
Continuing to learn and grow is also essential for maintaining that passion. Many actors take workshops, classes, and masterclasses to hone their skills and explore new techniques. Collaboration with other artists is also a source of inspiration and growth.
- Sources of Inspiration: connecting with audiences, telling stories, collaborating with other artists.
- Continuing Education: Workshops, classes, masterclasses.
- Maintaining Passion: Remember the joy of performance, embrace collaboration, stay curious and open to new experiences.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Broadway Performers
Breaking into Broadway is notoriously difficult,but not unfeasible. Here are some practical tips for aspiring performers:
- Train rigorously: Take acting, singing, and dance classes to develop your skills.
- Network: Attend auditions, workshops, and industry events to meet people and build connections.
- Build a strong resume: Gain experience in local theater productions, student films, and other performance opportunities.
- Be persistent: Don’t give up! Rejection is part of the process.
- Take care of yourself: Prioritize your physical and mental health to avoid burnout.
Resources for Aspiring Broadway Actors
| Resource Type | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| acting School | Stella Adler Studio of Acting | Offers complete acting programs. |
| Performing Arts Camp | Stagedoor Manor | A summer camp focused on theater and performing arts. |
| Audition Website | Actors Access | A platform to find and apply for acting jobs. |
| Vocal Coach | Joan Lader | Renowned vocal coach with celebrity clients. |