Carly Rae Jepsen will write music for the Broadway adaptation of the hit film 10 Things I Hate About You. She will team up with Grammy-winning musician Ethan Gruska to create the musical’s score. The announcement was made by producer Mike Bosner, who confirmed the star-studded creative team behind the project.
Jepsen is known for her catchy pop hits and has previously collaborated with Gruska on her album The Loveliest Time. Gruska, who earned a Grammy for engineering Boygenius’ The Record, also worked with Justin Vernon on the single So Unimportant. Together, they aim to bring fresh, memorable songs to the stage.
The musical’s book will be written by Lena Dunham and Jessica Huang. Renowned director and choreographer Christopher Wheeldon will oversee the stage direction and choreography. Music supervision, arrangements, and orchestrations will be handled by two-time Tony Award winner Tom Kitt, ensuring a polished and professional production.
The Broadway adaptation will transform the popular teen romantic comedy into a live musical experience. While the premiere date has not yet been revealed, fans of the film and Jepsen alike are eager to see how the story will come to life on stage.
Jepsen has gradually shifted her focus from chart-topping pop singles to theatrical and collaborative projects. Her involvement in Broadway marks an exciting new chapter in her career, showcasing her versatility as a songwriter and performer. Gruska’s experience in both indie and mainstream music complements Jepsen’s vibrant style, promising a musical score that appeals to both new audiences and longtime fans.
The collaboration between Jepsen and Gruska is expected to include original songs inspired by the film’s iconic story, which follows high school students navigating love, friendship, and social pressures. The creative team aims to preserve the heart of the movie while adding a fresh musical layer that will resonate on stage.
Christopher Wheeldon’s direction and choreography are likely to bring dynamic movement and visual storytelling to the production. Wheeldon, known for his work in ballet and Broadway, has a reputation for blending artistic innovation with audience-friendly entertainment. His vision, paired with Jepsen and Gruska’s music, could result in a vibrant and unforgettable show.
Tom Kitt’s role as music supervisor is crucial for aligning the musical numbers with the show’s pacing and emotional beats. Kitt, celebrated for his work on Next to Normal and If/Then, brings years of Broadway expertise to ensure that each song connects with the audience and enhances the story.
Fans of Jepsen’s pop career can expect her signature melodic hooks to appear in the musical’s score. The collaboration with Gruska, along with guidance from Dunham, Huang, Wheeldon, and Kitt, suggests that the Broadway adaptation will balance youthful energy, humor, and heartfelt moments.
Although details about casting, specific song titles, and premiere dates are still under wraps, the announcement has already generated excitement among Broadway enthusiasts and Jepsen fans worldwide. The musical promises to introduce the beloved story of 10 Things I Hate About You to a new generation in a lively, music-driven format.
With its combination of experienced creators and fresh musical talent, the production is poised to become a major highlight in the upcoming Broadway season. Carly Rae Jepsen’s move into theater illustrates her expanding artistic reach, and audiences will likely see her pop sensibilities translated into a compelling live experience.