Marilyn Monroe Musical to Offer One-Night-Only World Premiere

Prospect House Entertainment, in association with Glendale Arts Productions, will present a one-night-only premiere of the Marilyn Monroe musical Marilyn! on July 29 at the Alex Theater in Glendale, California.

The evening will commemorate what would have been the 90th birthday of actress Marilyn Monroe, including exclusive interviews with Monroe’s former boyfriend Bill Pursel, Monroe’s Bus Stop costar Don Murray, Marilyn Monroe biographer Michelle Morgan, president of the fan club "Marilyn Remembered" Greg Schreiner, and Actors Studio classmate James Karen, among others. The celebration will also include a pre-show reception, featuring an exclusive collection of Monroe’s artifacts from Schreiner's personal collection.

The musical Marilyn! (not to be confused with the fictional musical Bombshell created for NBC's Smash) chronicles the star’s childhood and tumultuous path to stardom. Set in the present day, the story follows Michelle, a young journalist from England researching Marilyn Monroe to commemorate the actress’ 90th birthday. She visits Charlie Page, one of Marilyn’s drivers, who is now living a life of solitude. Two stories emerge as Charlie bonds with Michelle and he recalls Marilyn Monroe’s life in flashback and reveals the real reason behind his living as a recluse for over 40 years.

The cast stars Kelley Jakle (Pitch Perfect) as Marilyn Monroe, Kelley Dorney (PBS Concert Special A Tale of Two Cities) as Norma Jeane, and Samantha Stewart (Days of Our Lives) as Michelle Morgan.

Directed by Tegan Summer, the show features a book and lyrics by Summer, music and additional lyrics by Gregory Nabours, and choreography by Ferly Prado and Victoria Gracie.

For tickets and more information, click here.