Schmigadoon! Dazzles Audiences with Humor and Heart In Love Letter To Broadway
By Kiersten Bjork (April 20, 2026)
Schmigadoon! is a delightful new musical based on the Apple TV show of the same name, now playing on Broadway at the Nederlander Theatre. This campy, dance-filled show is truly a joy, and it’s a production that is sure to thrill any fan of Golden Age musical theatre–as well as all those who just love a big, classic Broadway feel.
In Schmigadoon!, New York doctors Josh and Melissa set out on a couples’ backpacking retreat after they find themselves struggling in their relationship. However, instead of finding the key to salvaging their love, they find themselves in Schmigadoon, a magical town that’s a Golden Age musical come to life. The townspeople won’t stop singing, the bridge out of town leads nowhere (dropping them right back into the town entrance any time they try to leave), and the only way to escape is by finding true love—which may or may not be with each other!
What ensues is a charming romp through songs inspired by iconic showtunes–from “You Done Tamed Me” with inspiration from Carousel’s “Soliloquy,” to “Baby Talk,” a parody of “Do-Re-Mi” from The Sound of Music–and a story packed with characters with classic counterparts, like Betsy, based off of Ado Annie from Oklahoma! and Danny Bailey inspired by Billy Bigelow from Carousel. The book, music, and lyrics are by Cinco Paul–who also wrote, created, and scored the original television show–with orchestrations by Doug Besterman and Mike Morris, and music supervision and arrangements by David Chase.
Christopher Gattelli, coming off of the success of Death Becomes Her, directs and choreographs the production. Gattelli’s choreography is always stellar, and Schmigadoon! bursts with impressive dance numbers, many with nods to iconic choreography from the musicals being referenced and spoofed. The cast is filled with Broadway veterans, including through the ranks of the ensemble, and they are truly dancing their hearts out on that stage. From tap to leaps and lifts, it’s fantastic choreography performed by a talented company. Gattelli’s direction is dynamic and clever, playing to the wit and humor of the book while providing plenty of moments for this cast’s strengths to shine through.
Schmigadoon! is a delightful new musical based on the Apple TV show of the same name, now playing on Broadway at the Nederlander Theatre. This campy, dance-filled show is truly a joy, and it’s a production that is sure to thrill any fan of Golden Age musical theatre–as well as all those who just love a big, classic Broadway feel.
In Schmigadoon!, New York doctors Josh and Melissa set out on a couples’ backpacking retreat after they find themselves struggling in their relationship. However, instead of finding the key to salvaging their love, they find themselves in Schmigadoon, a magical town that’s a Golden Age musical come to life. The townspeople won’t stop singing, the bridge out of town leads nowhere (dropping them right back into the town entrance any time they try to leave), and the only way to escape is by finding true love—which may or may not be with each other!
What ensues is a charming romp through songs inspired by iconic showtunes–from “You Done Tamed Me” with inspiration from Carousel’s “Soliloquy,” to “Baby Talk,” a parody of “Do-Re-Mi” from The Sound of Music–and a story packed with characters with classic counterparts, like Betsy, based off of Ado Annie from Oklahoma! and Danny Bailey inspired by Billy Bigelow from Carousel. The book, music, and lyrics are by Cinco Paul–who also wrote, created, and scored the original television show–with orchestrations by Doug Besterman and Mike Morris, and music supervision and arrangements by David Chase.
Christopher Gattelli, coming off of the success of Death Becomes Her, directs and choreographs the production. Gattelli’s choreography is always stellar, and Schmigadoon! bursts with impressive dance numbers, many with nods to iconic choreography from the musicals being referenced and spoofed. The cast is filled with Broadway veterans, including through the ranks of the ensemble, and they are truly dancing their hearts out on that stage. From tap to leaps and lifts, it’s fantastic choreography performed by a talented company. Gattelli’s direction is dynamic and clever, playing to the wit and humor of the book while providing plenty of moments for this cast’s strengths to shine through.
The Company of Schmigadoon! on Broadway (Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman)
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Alex Brightman and the Company of Schmigadoon! on Broadway (Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman)
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Sara Chase and Alex Brightman play Melissa Gimble and Josh Skinner, our falling-out-of-love couple who find themselves in the magical town of Schmigadoon. Both are hilarious in their own right, and play off each other quite well. Chase is fiery yet poised, while Brightman gives goofy and stubborn, yet full of heart. The two are talented comedians and vocalists, and these parts are excellent vehicles for them.
As Mildred Layton, the stern, traditional reverend’s wife, Ana Gasteyer is a powerhouse. She commands the stage at all times, drawing the eye with both her darker costumes, and her delightfully devious character work. As the Reverend Layton, Maulik Pancholy is aptly the opposite, nailing the softer, quieter role.
Max Clayton takes on Danny Bailey, the singing, dancing rapscallion who falls hard and fast for Melissa. Clayton truly shines in this track–from the vocals to the choreography–and we can’t help but fall for his character from the very first notes.
McKenzie Kurtz is hysterical as Betsy, the giggly, young girl who sets her sights on Josh. From her rendition of “Not That Kinda Gal” to her over-the-top physical and vocal choices for the role, Kurtz is giving us comedy gold.
As Mildred Layton, the stern, traditional reverend’s wife, Ana Gasteyer is a powerhouse. She commands the stage at all times, drawing the eye with both her darker costumes, and her delightfully devious character work. As the Reverend Layton, Maulik Pancholy is aptly the opposite, nailing the softer, quieter role.
Max Clayton takes on Danny Bailey, the singing, dancing rapscallion who falls hard and fast for Melissa. Clayton truly shines in this track–from the vocals to the choreography–and we can’t help but fall for his character from the very first notes.
McKenzie Kurtz is hysterical as Betsy, the giggly, young girl who sets her sights on Josh. From her rendition of “Not That Kinda Gal” to her over-the-top physical and vocal choices for the role, Kurtz is giving us comedy gold.
Ana Gasteyer and the Company of Schmigadoon! on Broadway (Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman)
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The Company of Schmigadoon! on Broadway (Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman)
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In the role of Emma Tate, reminiscent of Marian from The Music Man, Isabelle McCalla is a force to be reckoned with–kind and genuine, while still grounded and strong. She leads the fantastic number “With All Your Heart,” singing and dancing right along with the ensemble. Ayaan Diop plays her adorable younger brother Carson, and steals the hearts of every audience member any time he so much as smiles.
Brad Oscar portrays Mayor Menlove–the town’s leader who perhaps lives up to his name more than they originally thought–and fills his role with wit and heart. As his wife, Florence Menlove, Ann Harada is a joy to watch. Both have great comedic timing, and they make an excellent pair. Ivan Hernandez takes our breath away as Doc, charming the audience and characters alike.
The ensemble for this production is knocking it out of the park, and features Clyde Alves, Joshua Burrage, Kaleigh Cronin, Zachary Downer, Afra Hines, Kimberly Immanuel, Jess LeProtto, Nathan Lucrezio, Shina Ann Morris, Becca Peterson, Richard Riaz Yoder, and Lyrica Woodruff. Swings for the production are Brandon Block, Maria Briggs, Lauralyn McClelland, and Keven Quillon, with Miles McNicoll as the alternate for Carson. The ensemble have nice features throughout, from Burrage as the humorous Larry the Fireman, to LeProtto as the always-injured Pete.
Brad Oscar portrays Mayor Menlove–the town’s leader who perhaps lives up to his name more than they originally thought–and fills his role with wit and heart. As his wife, Florence Menlove, Ann Harada is a joy to watch. Both have great comedic timing, and they make an excellent pair. Ivan Hernandez takes our breath away as Doc, charming the audience and characters alike.
The ensemble for this production is knocking it out of the park, and features Clyde Alves, Joshua Burrage, Kaleigh Cronin, Zachary Downer, Afra Hines, Kimberly Immanuel, Jess LeProtto, Nathan Lucrezio, Shina Ann Morris, Becca Peterson, Richard Riaz Yoder, and Lyrica Woodruff. Swings for the production are Brandon Block, Maria Briggs, Lauralyn McClelland, and Keven Quillon, with Miles McNicoll as the alternate for Carson. The ensemble have nice features throughout, from Burrage as the humorous Larry the Fireman, to LeProtto as the always-injured Pete.
Sara Chase and Ann Harada in Schmigadoon! on Broadway (Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman)
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Isabelle McCalla and the Company of Schmigadoon! on Broadway (Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman)
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Schmigadoon! features a gorgeous scenic design by Scott Pask, who employs color and illusion to their fullest potential. The town of Schmigadoon is this slice of magical, musical life, and the set elevates that feeling tenfold, particularly in the bright, vibrant color. There are pieces cleverly designed to feel full from the audience, but at second glance have much less depth to them than you thought, echoing the beautiful yet false nature of the town itself. Donald Holder’s lighting design builds upon the scenery, filling out the world of the show with intentional spotlights and shadows.
Costumes by designer Linda Cho are excellent, matching the colorful tones of the set while hinting at character personalities and the original characters upon which they are inspired. Hair and wig designer Tom Watson and makeup designer Ashley Ryan finish out the character looks with much success. Sound design by Walter Trarbach is strong throughout, with a solid balance.
Costumes by designer Linda Cho are excellent, matching the colorful tones of the set while hinting at character personalities and the original characters upon which they are inspired. Hair and wig designer Tom Watson and makeup designer Ashley Ryan finish out the character looks with much success. Sound design by Walter Trarbach is strong throughout, with a solid balance.
Brad Oscar and Maulik Pancholy in Schmigadoon! on Broadway (Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman)
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Alex Brightman and Ayaan Diop in Schmigadoon! on Broadway (Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman)
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Whether you enjoy Golden Age showtunes, are a fan of the television show, or just love a big flashy musical, Schmigadoon! is sure to make you smile. The songs are catchy, the cast is wonderful, and it’s all packaged in a gloriously funny show that kicks up its heels, reminds us what love is all about, and isn’t afraid to dance. The production has a limited run, so I recommend grabbing your tickets sooner rather than later–the town of Schmigadoon awaits!
Schmigadoon! is now playing at the Nederlander Theatre on Broadway. Learn more and purchase tickets at schmigadoonbroadway.com. Production photography is by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman.
Kiersten Bjork is a professional theatremaker, performer, and reviewer (Connecticut Critics Circle) from Branford, CT.
Schmigadoon! is now playing at the Nederlander Theatre on Broadway. Learn more and purchase tickets at schmigadoonbroadway.com. Production photography is by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman.
Kiersten Bjork is a professional theatremaker, performer, and reviewer (Connecticut Critics Circle) from Branford, CT.