Writer-composer Dylan MarcAurele was captivated by the Canadian TV series “Heated Rivalry” and binge-watched the entire show in one sitting. Intrigued by the queer hockey romance between Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, played by Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, MarcAurele envisioned a musical adaptation of the series. Thus, “Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody” was born.
MarcAurele, known for creating musical parodies like “M3gan” and episodes of “The Real Housewives,” swiftly penned the play, which quickly progressed from two sold-out concert readings to an off-Broadway run set to start previews on May 12 in New York. The musical parody adds to the global phenomenon surrounding “Heated Rivalry,” stemming from a bestselling book by Rachel Reid that was adapted into a popular TV show, sparking fan fiction and a dedicated fan base hungry for more content.
As anticipation builds for the second season of the TV series, scheduled to air in April 2027, the musical parody will premiere on May 26, offering audiences a playful way to engage with the beloved characters until the new season arrives. The production combines elements of queer pop-culture fandom with lively show tunes reminiscent of “Anastasia” and “Chess,” infused with a mix of ballet-inspired hockey choreography and the energetic vibe of “High School Musical.”
Director-producer Alan Kliffer refers to the musical as a “love letter” to the series, highlighting the seamless transition from readings to a full-fledged production as a testament to the show’s cultural impact. The creative team, including twin choreographers Tiffany and Brook Engen, and a talented Broadway cast led by Jay Armstrong Johnson and Jimin Moon, worked diligently to bring the parody to life authentically.
Armstrong Johnson, cast as Ilya, delved into character preparation, including mastering a Russian accent, with dedication and respect for the source material. The addition of a narrator, Susan, a “wine mom” played by Ryann Redmond, adds a unique perspective to the production, catering to both devoted fans and newcomers alike.
Early feedback from concert readings suggests that the musical parody successfully captures the essence of “Heated Rivalry,” leaving audiences both entertained and moved. With a successful off-Broadway run underway, there are optimistic hopes for a possible Canadian premiere in the future to further expand the reach of the production and engage a broader audience.
Despite being an unauthorized parody, the creative team remains hopeful for the support and approval of key figures involved in the original show, extending invitations to the opening night to show creator Rachel Reid, show runner Jacob Tierney, and the lead actors, Connor and Hudson, as a gesture of admiration for their work and contribution to the cultural phenomenon that is “Heated Rivalry.”
