What if the next Broadway hit started with a suggestion scribbled on a piece of paper from the audience?
That’s exactly what happens during Broadway’s Next Hit Musical, the improv musical comedy show heads to Clemson this month. The touring production lands at the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts on March 24, transforming an ordinary night into something extraordinary. Instead of a traditional script, the show unfolds like an awards ceremony with a hilarious twist. Imagine the Tony Awards, except every nominated song is made up on the spot.
Welcome to the PHONY Awards!
Before the show begins, audience members are invited to submit original song titles. A cast of seasoned improvisers and musicians randomly pulls suggestions and performs them as musical numbers – complete with choreography and scenes built on the spot. Each song becomes a “nominee” for the evening’s big prize. After several songs are performed, the audience votes for their favorite. The winning number is then expanded into a full mini-musical with characters, unexpected plot twists, and a story that unfolds before the audience’s eyes. The result is a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience. No two performances are ever the same. This spontaneous energy has earned national praise. The New York Times calls it, “Hilarious!” The New York Post describes it as, “a musical of, for, and by the people.”
A Stage with Upstate Roots: The Brooks Center for the Performing Arts
Opened in 1994, the Brooks Center was designed to bring world-class performances to Clemson students and the surrounding community. The facility includes multiple performance spaces. At the heart of the Building is Brooks Theater. A nearly 1,000 seat auditorium that regularly welcomes professional performers from across the country while also showcasing Clemson’s own theater and music programs. For Upstate audiences, it offers the chance to experience productions in an intimate venue just a short drive from Greenville.
Why You Should Go
Every show is completely different. The entire show is improvised. No script, no rehearsed songs. Just talented performers building a musical from audience suggestions.
You help create the show. Your song title could become one of the evening’s nominated numbers, or even the winning song!
You’ll experience Broadway energy. Expect big musical theater moments mixed with quick-witted comedy, surprising story lines, and a lot of laughter.
It’s an easy night out, not far from Greenville. Clemson’s Brooks Theater makes for a fun midweek outing for Upstate residents looking for something a little different.
Event Details:
Broadway’s Next Hit Musical
Brooks Center for the Performing Arts – Clemson University
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
7:30pm
Tickets: $22.50-$35
Runtime: 90 minutes with an intermission