Another in the stream of television and movie productions that are potentially headed to Broadway is television’s newest gal-pal, “Ugly Betty,” according to several published reports. Adapted from “Yo Soy Betty La Fea,” a telenovela that achieved international fame, the U.S. show earned 11 Emmy nominations, more than any other comedy series on any network.
Betty Suarez, played by America Fererra, is a most unlikely heroine; not “cool” and not attractive, but the writers have made her character so appealing. With her bangs and braces, she’s the “ugly duckling” that does well, the truth that betrays the lie that beauty is only skin-deep. Will “Ugly Betty’s” legions of fans want to see “her” on Broadway? According to a slip of the tongue by co-star Michael Urie, a Broadway production is under consideration by the powers-that-be at ABC. It’s hush-hush yet who the director, choreographer and composer might be.
“Legally Blonde,” “Young Frankenstein,” “Cry Baby,” “Xanadu” and “Shrek” have all made successful moves from the big screen to the Broadway stage. How many have we seen move from the small screen to the stage? “Ugly Betty” seems perfect for the task.
Producers and casting directors of “Ugly Betty” have made savvy choices of actors for the television series. In the first season alone, they cast Vanessa Williams, Judith Light, Patti Lupone, Kristin Chenoweth, Rita Moreno, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Mark Indelicato and others with stage experience and presence. Surely, they’ll do the same for Broadway.
Salma Hayek is the executive producer of the television production with Silvio Horta, Marco Pennette, Jose Tamez and James Hayman.
