The new musical “Smash,” opening on Broadway at the Imperial Theatre, creates more than one bombshell, strategically detonating a multitude of explosive twists, turns, and powerful production numbers, to create a good old-fashioned musical. Never having seen the popular television show of the same name, there were no comparisons or expectations to be fulfilled, so this production seemed fresh and new. The book by Bob Martin and Rick Elice is a show business tale, about the making of a Broadway musical, that can be labeled as a musical mystery, given all the plot-changing events that occur during the show. It is full of delightful surprises right up to the final musical number. The music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Mr. Shaiman are serviceable, ranging from poignant ballads to powerful Broadway belt production numbers. The lush orchestrations by Doug Besterman let the full orchestra soar under the musical supervision of Stephen Oremus.

The plot contains elements of many past musical comedies but manages to seamlessly weave them together in an outrageous manner, to provide an amusing, farcical, and entertaining production. The central plot revolves around the making of “Bombshell” a new Broadway musical comedy. Everything that can go wrong, does. The musical comedy, being written about the life of Marilyn Monroe, slowly enters the more serious, tragic zone, leaving comedy behind. The book changes, the songs change, the husband and wife writing team is on the brink of disaster and divorce, and the star becomes her character, who is a major problem. Who will be the star? Who is the star? Where is the star? Who wants to be the star? Director Susan Stroman provides a rollicking ride on this rollercoaster of a musical, that moves along at lighting speed managing all the ups, downs and sharp turns with ease.

The cast is incredible, with one star turn after another, along with more than enough blockbuster production numbers. Robyn Hurder shines as Ivy Lynn, the actor who portrays Marilyn Monroe. Fatigue is not a word in her vocabulary, exerting unbelievable energy into many fabulous production numbers. Brooks Ashmanskas is in his prime as director Nigel, with impeccable comic timing delivering lines with the utmost flair and conviction. Kristine Nielsen is hysterical as Susan Proctor, the dark, droll Method acting coach. Bella Coppola plays assistant director Chole with stable characterization that grounds the production, but also impresses when taking her turn vocally, with a big Broadway belt. Caroline Bowman gives a sturdy interpretation of Karen, Ivy Lynn’s understudy, and captures the audience with charm and powerful vocals.

Then there are the astounding dancers, who deliver the deft choreography of Joshua Bergasse flawlessly. They are a joy to behold as they effortlessly exhibit their skills in jazz, tap and ballet with endless energy. The chaotic structure and fast pace ensure that the evening flies by with plenty of laughs and surprises. If you are looking for a remake of the television series that is adapted for the stage, you might be disappointed, but if you want a good old-fashioned musical comedy that is delightfully entertaining, with a first-rate cast, this would be the show to see. This “Smash” explodes as a “smashing” new Broadway musical!