Star performer from Rugby takes to stage to celebrate Marilyn Monroe's centenary in New York
A star performer from Rugby is taking to the stage on Broadway to celebrate the life of blonde bombshell Marilyn Monroe.
Samantha Stevens hopes to bring a captivating evening of music and storytelling that explores the life, legacy, and emotional complexity of one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures.
She make her debut at 54 Below in New York on Marilyn’s 100th birthday - June 1.
Inspired by her deep admiration for the star, In Love with Marilyn reflects a modern artist's connection to a timeless icon, highlighting why Marilyn continues to resonate with audiences today.
Samantha said: “Marilyn Monroe has always been a huge inspiration to me, but during the pandemic, I found a new way to connect with her legacy through a project I started called Monroe Moments.
“Each week, I would recreate one of her iconic looks – either sewing pieces from scratch or sourcing them – and share the story behind the image.”
Samantha, who lives in New York, fondly remembers her time at Rugby Theatre and the Summer Youth Project.
“They were such a huge part of my life growing up,” she said, “and I’m always so grateful for the creatives who shaped me and the friendships I made there.”
Samantha went on to study Musical Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, before completing my BA at the London College of Music, graduating with First Class Honours.
She went on: “Since moving to New York, I’ve had the privilege of stepping into the shoes of some of America’s most iconic blondes – Miss Adelaide in Guys and Dolls, Betty Haynes in White Christmas, and Lily St. Regis on the U.S National Tour of Annie.
“Unironically, the only British role I’ve played since moving to the States has been Lauren in Kinky Boots – a factory girl from Northampton, not too far from where I grew up. Needless to say, that one felt extra special.
“I ‘think blonde’ both on and off stage, has really become part of my identity as a performer.”
Living close to Lexington and 52nd Street, where the famous Marilyn subway grate scene was filmed, Samantha recreated that moment first.
“It really resonated,” Samantha said.
"From there, it grew into a weekly exploration of her life, style, and story. Those moments ultimately inspired me to create a full show. After an initial performance and many rewrites, that project has now become In Love with Marilyn.”
The performer said she was “incredibly fortunate” to open the Sedona International Film Festival with the show.
“I’ll now be performing it on her actual 100th birthday at the iconic 54 Below in New York City,” she said.
“More than anything, I want to continue shining a light on the woman behind the image. She spent her life searching for love and to be taken seriously – and at the core, that’s something we can all relate to.”
Marilyn Monroe, born June 1, 1926, would be 100 years old in 2026. She became one of the most popular sex symbols of the 1950s and early 1960s. She passed away in 1962 at the age of 36.