Happiness: Everything You Need to Know

There’s no business like show business — a sentiment far too familiar to acclaimed Broadway director, Charlie Summers. But after 20 years in the New York musical theatre world, he's found himself in a bit of a predicament. Now Charlie’s back in his small hometown of Taraunga, New Zealand — and he's harboring a secret that threatens to damage both his reputation and long-term career…. 

When Charlie learns his mom’s amateur theatre troupe (the same one he grew up performing in) is putting on a new musical number, he begrudgingly agrees to check it out. But much to his surprise, he ends up more involved in the production than he originally thought. 

Will the show go on? Read on to learn more about the hilarious new musical comedy “Happiness” on PBS!

What is Happiness About

Broadway director and golden boy Charlie Summers has come home to New Zealand, and he’s devastated. After working his way up the professional ladder on Broadway, he's back living with and helping his mother, Gaye, at the local community theatre. Charlie soon discovers that the eclectic cast and crew may not be pros, but they’ve got plenty of passion.

The Pizazz Theatre Company is putting on a brand-new musical, The Trojan Horse, written and composed by local music teacher Gloria Rameka. Directed by the legendary Adrian Templeton, the show will have it all — dancing soldiers, special effects, amazing vocals and a spectacular wooden horse. Charlie can’t help but try to make the show better. But can he find a way to make the greatest possible without destroying everyone’s happiness?

When Does Happiness Premiere?

Broadway fanatics and musical theatre enthusiasts alike, make your calendar for the premiere of “Happiness” on December 14, 2025. 

Meet the Cast of Happiness

Accomplished Broadway theatre director, Charlie Summers (played by Harry McNaughton), has returned to his home country of New Zealand… with a secret. During his most recent show, Cats, something went terribly awry, leaving Charlie in a compromising position. While he waits to have his return visa approved, he agrees to swing by his mom’s local theatre company, of which Charlie has lots of unpleasant childhood memories. 

Despite his initial attempts to remain uninvolved with the company’s new show, Charlie ultimately ends up spearheading it, alongside his fellow creative partner, Gloria. But will Charlie’s secret catch up to him?

As the music director and author of The Trojan Horse musical, Gloria (played by Marshayla Christie) is initially prone to moments of self-doubt and anxiety. But Gloria has high ambitions and a clear concept for her musical creation — and she’s not willing to have her ideas brushed aside by the at-times domineering show director, Adrian Templeton. 

Fortunately, Charlie sees the brilliance in Gloria’s vision for the musical, and together, they inject it with some much-needed spark and verve.

A diva, a star, an icon — Jacqui James (played by Jessie Lawrence) is a household name in Taraunga. Of course, she’s also a real estate agent. 

As a childhood friend of Charlie’s, the two share a long history as well as an unwavering passion for the creative arts. So, it’s no secret that Jacqui loves being the center of attention and treated like a star. When Charlie attempts to offer her constructive feedback on her performance and encourage her to play nice with her co-stars, Jacqui struggles to take it in stride. 

Will she muster the energy to be a true team player?

The Pizazz Theatre Company wouldn’t be anywhere without its brightest, shiniest member… the one, the only Gaye Summers! 

As a single mother, Gaye (played by Rebecca Gibney) is no stranger to making sacrifices, having held down multiple jobs in order to support her son’s early interest in musical theater. She’s a team player who tries to lift up every one around her, and no one more so than Charlie — a fact that he often takes for granted.

As one of the youngest members of the cast, Mia So’otaga (played by Melody Lui-Webster) still has a lot to learn about musical theatre, but there’s no denying her immense singing capabilities. Unfortunately, due to Jacqui’s established standing in the company, Mia’s talent is often overlooked. But with the new changes that Charlie and Gloria bring to the musical, Mia is given a chance to showcase her vocal prowess — and just like that, a star is born.

At the helm of Pizazz is theatre director, Adrian Templeton (played by Peter Hambleton). Like many creatives, Adrian has strong opinions and a clear artistic vision. Add that to a long career producing multiple hits, and it’s his way or the highway.

From the beginning, Adrian is skeptical of Charlie’s return to New Zealand, and worries the Broadway director intends to usurp his theatrical vision. Will Charlie and Adrian be able to co-exist within the show, or is there only room for one director at Pizazz? 

Starring as the male lead in The Trojan Horse is the quiet yet kind Connor Onosa’i (played by Henry Auva’a). As an electrician by day, Connor’s mastery of light also translates to his shining onstage presence. And while the production kicks off, sparks also begin to fly between Connor and Gloria… will their romance blossom? Or crumble under the pressure of show biz?

The Pizzaz Company possesses no shortage of passionate, devoted performers, and the charismatic dance choreographer, Adam Whiteford (played by Joel Granger), is no exception. With striking versatility for song and dance, Adam brings his A-Game to the ensemble — and helps the show reach new heights.

And with a kick ball change, pirouette, and leap — make sure to stream the rest of Happiness on pbs.org and the PBS App!