A new stage musical titled Misfits Together will explore the complex relationship between Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Arthur Miller, focusing on their marriage during the summer of 1956. The production, set to open next autumn at Leicester’s Curve theatre, marks a foray into musical theatre by two indie musicians: Dan Smith of the band Bastille and Ralph Pelleymounter from To Kill a King. They have created the musical score, which will be released as a studio album, with the first track, “Oh America,” dropping this Thursday. The musical is based on a film that Miller wrote for Monroe, which was released shortly after their divorce in 1961. The project initially began as a musical about 1950s America, with Smith and Pelleymounter sharing their songs with Charlotte Bogard Macleod, who wrote the book for the production. Bogard Macleod was particularly drawn to Miller’s integrity, especially his refusal to name names before the House Un-American Activities Committee, despite the personal risks. She emphasized Monroe’s central role in the story, noting how she supported Miller and had her own production company, an aspect of her life that has not been widely recognized. The musical will examine how Monroe was often reduced to the image of a “bombshell” despite her artistic achievements, and how her fame overshadowed Miller’s. Directed by Curve’s artistic director, Nikolai Foster, the production will highlight Monroe’s deep understanding of film and acting. Foster noted that during rehearsals, it was easy to forget that the couple were among the most famous cultural figures of the 20th century. Pelleymounter incorporated the phrase “history doesn’t repeat, but it rhymes” into the musical, drawing parallels between the 1950s “red scare” and modern political issues in the U.S. One song critiques politicians who make manipulative or fear-based statements. The musical also features other notable figures, such as Laurence Olivier, Monroe’s co-star in The Prince and the Showgirl. Smith and Pelleymounter wrote over 30 songs for the project but will perform fewer than half of them. Drawing inspiration from Eminem’s song “Stan” and iconic photos of Monroe and Miller, the musical includes scenes such as bicycle rides. The pair, who have been friends for years, aim to create songs that are both epic and nuanced, moving the story forward while exploring its characters and historical context. Misfits Together will run at Curve’s Studio theatre from September 4 to September 25, 2027.