Brand-new musical drama on Diva

MANILA, Philippines - Come Feb. 9, on DIVA Universal, feel the intensity and drama of the making of a Broadway hit Smash, the latest TV series produced by Steven Spielberg and musical blockbuster movie producers Neil Meron and Craig Zedan. 

In the cutthroat world of Broadway where only one can be under the spotlight, Smash centers on the making of a musical based on the life of Marilyn Monroe, as well as the dreamers and schemers who all have one common desire — to be a “smash.”

Aside from Spielberg, production also includes award-winning producers creator Theresa Rebeck (NYPD Blue) and some of the most spectacular actors like Debra Messing (Will & Grace), Anjelica Huston, Jack Davenport (Pirates of the Caribbean). Smash also brings singing sensation Katharine McPhee (American Idol) and Broadway veteran Megan Hilty to the mix as we follow them in their struggles to turn a kernel of an idea into a Broadway hit.

“I’ve had this idea for quite a few years, and I’m really interested in what happens backstage because for me, it’s a complete mystery how they do it in theater. Choreographers battling with writers and actors auditioning in competition with each other — that entire mix often sets off thermonuclear explosions, which I think makes good drama for television,” says Spielberg.

And like in any great musical, it is the music that’s the deal-breaker. On Smash, we can expect no less. The show promises fantastic original songs, one written by composers Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, both celebrated Grammy and Tony-awarded music composers for Hairspray.

The plot deserves just as great a justice to its music and talent. Discover the intriguing yet hilarious lives of songwriting duo Tom (Christian Borle) and Julia (Debra Messing) who are both searching for their next Broadway hit.

The series also features a rivalry for the lead role between Karen (Katharine), a youthful, inexperienced Midwestern beauty trying to find fame in the big city and stage veteran Ivy Bell (Megan), who’s determined to leave the chorus line and get her big break.

Inevitably, they cross paths with Eileen (Anjelica), an out-of-luck producer who joins the “Marilyn” project with Derek (Jack Davenport), a brilliant director whose talent is matched by his egocentric amorality.

As they say, move over Glee, Smash is here.