SMASH in ten

Yes, I actually am writing this blog post. I will be the first to admit, I was not a fan of SMASH when it first aired last year. Then I went with the majority and began to watch every episode for the mere opportunity to love-hate the show and post hilarious comments on Facebook. Guilty.

Then, it all changed. Yes, Season 1 of this series had its bumps (the entire cast, team, and network will be the first to admit this) but there were so many incredible aspects of the show that left me wanting more and more. When I was growing up, I dreamed of a show like this; I burned out my copies of SINGING IN THE RAIN and WEST SIDE STORY because of the production numbers, the singing, and, more than anything, the dancing. I truly believe the next chapter of SMASH is the opportunity the entire team needed to iron out problems (which is common with a television series) and say "what story do we actually want to tell our audience".

So, as the season 2 premier approaches this week, I'd like to offer my top 10 reasons why you should tune in. Fans; get excited. Haters; get over it. Haven't made your mind up yet; get ready!

1. ELLIS (AND OTHERS) IS AXED:

It was never the actor, it was the character he was given. From Ellis to Dev, they're gone (quickly) and in their place are some bonafide stars and talents that the world should be introduced to at the network level.

2. GRACE ADLER NO MORE:

The scarves are gone and FINALLY people will give Debra Messing the chance to free herself of the past (and trust me, I will always love Grace) and take on the role of Julia with no stops. This woman is fierce, independent, hilarious, and humble. She deserves to be remembered for her iconic role but also many more chances to showoff her chops as an actress.

3. MORE BOMBSHELL!:

More songs, more dance numbers, and more drama as this musical tries to make it to Broadway! Don't lie to yourself. You know you had every single SMASH song on your Ipod last year and you were obsessed when they would pop up on shuffle...

4. NEW ARTISTS:
Yes, there will be plenty of BOMBSHELL but as a new musical comes into play, SMASH has added on some incredible contemporary composers who will make their names this season (and get many, many views on youtube as everyone wants to sing their songs for auditions and cabarets).

Here is Joe Iconis' BROADWAY, HERE I COME...

5. JEREMY JORDAN & COMPANY:

I will say it until I die; Jeremy Jordan is going to become one of the finest leading men on Broadway that we have seen in decades...Aside from his theatre credits, he is compiling a lengthy list of film and television projects as well. BYE DEV!!! Won't miss you at all but hello Jimmy (played by Jordan) who will make everything so much more interesting with Karen.

Along with Jordan, we have familiar faces from Broadway including Krysta Rodriguez and Andy Mientus (school boy crush since 2007). These actors should be admired for their talent and versatility. They are proving that a stage actor can transition over to film and make their mark anywhere so long as you are willing to work hard and take opportunities.

6. THIS SHOW SUPPORTS ACTORS:
I can't tell you the number of Broadway actors, aspiring young artists and talents this show uses. This series provides jobs and opportunities for so many that we should have a little more respect. Have an opinion or not care for the show, yes! But to ignorantly loathe a show without reason is pretentious and unnecessary.

7. IT'S ENTERTAINMENT, PEOPLE!
I don't think it's possible to watch this show and not be entertained. Maybe the storyline bothers you BUT the musical numbers are incredible. And for all you people in the theatre community who complain that "this isn't an accurate portrayal of our lives and work"...Do you think surgeons think Grey's Anatomy is accurate of their lives...or CSI...Get over it... It's television; it's escapism. And if you want accurate, watch Animal Planet or the History Channel...

8. THE DANCING:

Joshua Bergasse is a genius. The Jack Cole, old school Broadway style he brings to BOMBSHELL is breathtaking. Not to mention he needs to make realistic Broadway show-stopping numbers while remembering it's being filmed and not for a staged production. The amount of detail is so admirable for any dancer/choreographer.

9. TEAM IVY versus TEAM KAREN IS BACK!:

Who doesn't love competition?! Both of these girls bring it and I personally can't wait to see who makes it to Broadway as Marilyn (if either of them do)!

10. EXTRA, EXTRA!:

After being in NYC for only a month, I've had some incredible experiences already, including working on SMASH. Those people in the background who don't say much, if anything; they have dreams too. They hope that one day they'll get to be right in front of the camera like those stars they look up to. Don't forget that a television show has hundreds and hundreds of people working on set. They're all doing their part to make something magical happen. Show your support, show your love, and enjoy this season.

And, of course, follow me @joshbardier on twitter for when the season starts for updates, opinions, and  many laughs.

J