FAME is a stage musical based on the 1980 teen musical drama film of the same name. Set in New York City, it chronicles the lives and hardships of students attending the High School of Performing Arts from their auditions through their high school years. It tells the story of several students who attend the school, among them fame-obsessed Carmen, ambitious actress Serena, wisecracking comedian/bad boy Joe, quiet violinist Schlomo, "talented but dyslexic" dancer Tyrone, determined actor Nick, overweight dancer Mabel, and a serious dancer, Iris, from a poor family.