Why ‘Smash’ is Saying Goodbye to Broadway After a Shocking Tony Award Snub

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Why ‘Smash’ is Saying Goodbye to Broadway After a Shocking Tony Award Snub

"Smash" Closes Its Curtains on Broadway

"Smash," the musical inspired by the 2012 TV series, will end its run on June 22 after 32 previews and 84 performances at the Imperial Theatre. This marks it as the first Broadway show to close after not winning any awards at the 2025 Tony Awards.

The musical received two nominations: Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical for Brookes Ashmanskas and Best Choreography for Joshua Bergasse. However, in the week before the Tony ceremony, it struggled with attendance, filling only 66% of seats and grossing $656,161.

The show opened with mixed reviews. Critics often pointed to a confusing plot and a score that fell flat. The story centers around the behind-the-scenes creation of a Broadway musical about Marilyn Monroe. Despite its star power, which includes Robyn Hurder and Krysta Rodriguez, it failed to capture audiences.

Directed by Susan Stroman, a five-time Tony winner, "Smash" featured music by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, known for hits like "Hairspray." They contributed over two dozen songs to the musical, many adapted from the original series, along with brand-new material crafted for the stage.

Producers Robert Greenblatt, Neil Meron, and Steven Spielberg announced its closure, reflecting a trend where even star-studded productions can struggle on Broadway. This year’s Tony Awards also saw a number of high-profile shows go home empty-handed, raising questions about what audiences want from theater today.

In times of change, engaging musical theater has seen fluctuating popularity. A study from the American Theatre Wing noted that while traditional productions still attract loyal fans, audiences are increasingly drawn to innovative formats and fresh stories. As tastes shift, the future of Broadway may hinge on how quickly producers adapt.

For more on the challenges and trends in Broadway theater, consider resources from the American Theatre Wing here.



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Broadway,Broadway Closing,Smash,Tony Awards