Shaiman, Wittman React to SMASH Emmy Nomination

Broadway's Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, who co-write the music for NBC's hit musical drama SMASH, reacted to this morning's news that they received an Emmy Award Nomination for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics for the song 'Let Me Be Your Star.' Smash nomination nods also went to Uma Thurman as Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series and Joshua Bergasse for Outstanding Choreography.

Commented Shaiman, "Scott and I are thrilled to represent all our partners at 'Smash' and are so very thrilled for our friends and co-'Smash' nominees Chris Bacon, Joshua Bergasse and Uma Thurman, who make us smile, and in the case of Uma, laugh uproariously." 

Said Bergasse, "I'm so excited and honored that I'm nominated for my first Emmy for 'Smash.' I'm dancing across the room!" 

SMASH centers on the complex and all-consuming process behind the production of an original Broadway musical. Successful songwriting duo and old friends Tom (Christian Borle) and Julia (Debra Messing) reunite to realise their dream of adapting the life story of screen icon Marilyn Monroe into a hit musical; recruiting tenacious producer Eileen (Anjelica Huston) and brilliant director Derek (Jack Davenport) to bring the production to the stage.

Casting of the title role sparks conflict and rivalry between Karen (Katharine McPhee), a youthful, inexperienced beauty desperate to find fame in the big city, and Ivy (Megan Hilty), a stage veteran determined to leave the chorus line and finally get her big break. From its genesis, the "Marilyn" project is a rollercoaster ride of dramatic highs and lows for its cast and crew that will culminate on opening night, when the audience will determine whether or not the show is a "Smash".

The show was developed by NBC's Robert Greenblatt, Steven Spielberg, and Broadway producing team Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. Broadway's Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman wrote the music for the show. Michael Mayer directed the project, and playwright Theresa Rebeck penned the script.