Last night NBC premiered their new drama “Smash,” though despite the name, the show isn’t likely to become a smash hit.

Katharine McPhee stars as a struggling actress/singer who is desperately trying to make it big on Broadway. She auditions for the lead role in a new musical based on Marilyn Monroe’s life. McPhee has some stiff competition for the part going against Megan Hilty’s character, who already has the Monroe look down.

Other key actors in the cast include Debra Messing (“Will & Grace) and Jack Davenport (“Flash Forward,” “Pirates of the Caribbean”) who are working on creating the play.

Where the show falls short is the acting, which is certainly the most critical aspect of any show. It’s strange though because the cast is full of people who are very talented and have already had very successful careers. However, many of the scenes just feel awkward and forced.

The redeeming quality of “Smash” is the music. The one-hour premiere has several musical numbers that really are astounding, perhaps even making “Glee” tremble in its boots.

NBC’s promos for the show keep saying, “…and introducing Katharine McPhee,” but they forget that we already know her. McPhee was the runner-up on season five of “American Idol,” getting beat out by Taylor Hicks. (How?!)

Something needs to be done about the dialogue and acting of the show to remove the contrived feeling, but there really is potential in this show. McPhee is nothing short of breathtaking, and even if “Smash” gets crushed in the ratings, I’m certainly hoping this show will be just the thing McPhee needs to take her career to the next level.