Get ready for a fresh take on a classic story as Lena Dunham and Carly Rae Jepsen bring their musical adaptation of '10 Things I Hate About You' to Broadway in 2027. This exciting project, announced back in 2025, is a modern twist on Gil Junger's beloved 1999 teen comedy, which itself drew inspiration from Shakespeare's 'The Taming of the Shrew'.
What makes this musical particularly intriguing is the creative team behind it. Lena Dunham, known for her bold and unapologetic storytelling, teams up with Carly Rae Jepsen, who is no stranger to Broadway, having made her debut in Rodgers + Hammerstein's 'Cinderella'. Together, they aim to explore themes of self-discovery and rebellion through music and lyrics crafted by Jepsen and Ethan Gruska, and a book co-written by Dunham and Jessica Huang.
A Modern Take on a Classic
'10 Things I Hate About You' is a story about growing up and refusing to conform to societal expectations. In my opinion, this musical adaptation has the potential to resonate deeply with audiences, especially in today's cultural climate where individualism and authenticity are celebrated. The logline hints at a narrative that empowers young people to define themselves on their own terms, which is a powerful message.
One thing that immediately stands out to me is the choice to set the musical in a contemporary context. By updating the story, Dunham and Jepsen can explore modern issues and challenges faced by teenagers, adding a layer of relevance and relatability for today's audiences.
Creative Collaboration
The collaboration between Lena Dunham and Carly Rae Jepsen is an intriguing one. Dunham, known for her bold and often controversial work, brings a unique perspective to the project. Her partnership with Jepsen, who has a more mainstream pop music background, creates an interesting dynamic. I'm curious to see how their creative visions intertwine and what kind of musical style they will develop.
Broadway Bound
While we don't yet know the exact details of the Broadway production, such as the theater, opening night, or cast, the anticipation is building. This musical has the potential to be a game-changer, especially with the involvement of Broadway veteran Tom Kitt, who will oversee the music supervision, arrangements, and orchestrations. His expertise will undoubtedly elevate the musical experience.
A Busy Season for Jepsen
For Carly Rae Jepsen, this musical is just one of her exciting projects this season. She's also gearing up for the release of her new double album, 'Day and Night', and will perform at the All Things Go festival in New York City. Jepsen's versatility and talent are on full display, showcasing her ability to thrive in both the music and theater industries.
In conclusion, the upcoming Broadway musical '10 Things I Hate About You' promises to be a captivating and thought-provoking experience. With its modern take on a classic story, a talented creative team, and a powerful message, it has all the ingredients for a successful and memorable production. Personally, I can't wait to see how this unique collaboration unfolds and how it resonates with audiences when it hits Broadway in 2027.
