Variety reports that "Samantha Who?" head writer Marco Pennette is helming the development of several new Broadway musicals, including -- wait for it -- "The Flintstones."
The legit production, aimed at Broadway, will come from Warner Bros. Theater Ventures. Pennette was brought in by Marx, who's writing the music and lyrics with Jake Anthony. Gary Griffin ("The Color Purple") is directing.
Pennette's script will rely on contemporary issues: Wilma, for example, mulls leaving Fred because he still acts too much like a caveman and hasn't adapted to more modern ways. Barney and Betty tackle fertility issues before deciding to adopt. Musical will also tackle global warming -- but in this case, as "The Flintstones" takes place before the ice age, the characters will confront "global cooling."
Beyond "Samantha," Pennette's credits include "Ugly Betty," "The Hughleys," "Inconceivable" and "I'm With Her." He also co-created "Caroline in the City."
