The 2014 Festival's productions will be housed along 42nd Street at The Alice Griffin Jewel Box Theatre, and the Ford Foundation Studio Theatre at The Pershing Square Signature Center (480 West 42nd Street) as well as the PTC Performance Space (555 West 42nd Street) and The Laurie Beechman Theatre at the West Bank Cafe (407 West 42nd Street). The NYMF Developmental Reading Series will take place at The Studio Theatre at Theatre Row (410 West 42nd Street). Since its inception in 2004, NYMF has premiered more than 350 new musicals — 90 of which have gone on to award-winning productions in New York, in regional theatres in almost every state and in over 20 countries worldwide. Three NYMF shows have gone on to Broadway productions, including Chaplin, [title of show] and the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning Next to Normal.
For more information, visit NYMF.org.
Click through to read the full line up of musicals, concerts and special events.
Productions
Academia Nuts
Book and lyrics by Becca Anderson and Dan Marshall
Music by Julian Blackmore
"It's the National High School Quizbowl Championship! Dreamy-eyed brainiac Maggie McCutter hopes to win a scholarship so she can escape her controlling mother. Maggie's world is hilariously turned upside down when she falls for Tyler O'Neil, a football-loving opponent from rival team, the Walla Walla Walruses. As she's torn between the family she's got and the friendship she's found, will Maggie's trivial pursuits be in jeopardy? Academia Nuts is the uproarious nerd-rock musical everyone will be buzzing about!"
As We Lie Still
Book by Olivia de Guzman Emile
Music and lyrics by Patrick Emile
"As We Lie Still is a new musical about Avi Leiter, a magician in New York at the turn of the 20th century who overcomes the struggles of a fledgling magic act. His assistant, Josephine, is the key to his most astonishing trick. Together, they rise to Vaudevillian fame - until the trick goes awry. Twenty years later, old, ruined, and alone, Avi must prepare one more illusion. As We Lie Still uses a spellbinding, contemporary score to tell a story of love and forgiveness, of life and death, of this world and the next."
Bayonets of Angst
Book by Rick Kunzi and Justin Zeppa
Music by Rick Kunzi and Adam Barnosky
Lyrics by Rick Kunzi
"Bayonets of Angst is an original musical comedy set to a bluegrass soundtrack and narrated by the last remaining veterans of the American Civil War. These old codgers detail the behind-the-battlefield exploits of President Lincoln, the madness of General Tecumseh Sherman, and the pickled promiscuity of General Ulysses S. Grant in a dizzying sequence of events that changed the course of history. And because they were the ones who was there - you just listen and hush up 'bout it!"
Clinton
Book by Paul Hodge and Michael Hodge
Music and Lyrics by Paul Hodge
"It's hard enough being president by yourself. Bill Clinton's problem is that there are two of him. Literally. Clinton the Musical follows two Bill Clintons and Hillary on their quest to save their presidency, change America and prove that 'politics is show business for ugly people.' Nominated for Best New Musical at the 2012 Edinburgh Festival Fringe and transferred to London's King's Head Theatre in 2013."
Cloned!
Book by Jacey Powers and Dan Wolpow
Music by Adam Spiegel, lyrics by Dan Wolpow
Additional story by Adam Spiegel
"1993-There is a new president in the White House, Jurassic Park is about to tear up the box office, and Wally Waterman is on the verge of inventing the teleporter! But weird science gets weirder when Wally accidentally clones himself. Is NYC big enough for two giant, identical egos? It'll take nothing short of a movie star, international espionage, and a few pigeons to find out. Featuring a gleefully breezy score, Cloned! is door-slamming, yodel-happy, bird-squawking fun!" Coming of Age
Book, music and lyrics by Jon Provan
"Coming of Age is a theatrical song cycle - a collection of short stories about growing up. Each member of the dynamic ensemble cast - Girl, Boy, Young Woman, Young Man, Woman, and Man - plays multiple roles, spanning the globe and the whole of human history. They are rebels, warriors, dreamers, and innocents, confronting life and leaping into the unknown. A rock-infused contemporary score, evocative lyrics, and inventive staging join forces to chronicle the joys and fears of becoming yourself."
Deployed
Book, music and lyrics by Jessy Brouillard
"With a soaring pop rock score and set against the epic backdrop of a military base in Baghdad, Deployed follows Emily's emotional journey. Our heroine develops an unlikely friendship with her interpreter, Laila, as she trains Iraqi women. Lalia teaches Emily to appreciate others' suffering and to realize the enemy she's fighting is herself. When Emily finally lets go of her inner demons, a secret from the past comes back to wreak its revenge. They cannot forget...but can they forgive?"
Dew Gelbe Stern (The Yellow Star)
Book by James Millar and Alexis Fishman
Music by Friedrich Hollander, Mischa Spoliansky, Rudolf Nelson and more
"It is 1933 in divinely decadent Berlin. Alexis Fishman (NYMF's Next Broadway Sensation Winner 2012) is Erika Stern, darling of the crumbling Weimar Cabaret scene. Feisty, sassy, and always provocative, her show embodies the excess and daring of the time. But as the Nazis rise to power, tonight's performance will be her last. The lights go down and the audience holds their breath."
Fable
Book by Harrison Kaufman
Music and lyrics by Christopher Anselmo
"It's graduation time. When a mysterious classmate crashes their last epic night of celebration, a group of childhood friends is forced to confront the secrets they've been keeping from each other. Will their friendships survive the night? With an imaginative score and dynamic characters, Fable captures the moments when we are forced to change whether we like it or not. Watch what happens when the stories we were told as kids are revealed for the fictions they truly are."
Madame Infamy
Book by Jp Vigliotti
Music and lyrics by Cardozie Jones and Sean Willis
"At the turn of the 18th century, America stood firmly on the backs of its slaves while Paris burned as its poorest citizens revolted against the aristocracy. Amidst the chaos, two women forged wars of their own. Madame Infamy is the dark and moving tale of Marie Antoinette, last Queen of France, and Sally Hemings, slave and mistress of President Thomas Jefferson. Fighting hardship, scandal, and loss, each must find the strength to combat a nation in hopes of protecting the ones she loves."
Mother Jones and the Children's Crusade
Book, music and lyrics by Cheryl E. Kemeny
"She won't quit and she won't stay quiet! It's the turn of the century and aging Mary Harris "Mother" Jones is on a tireless crusade for justice as she leads ragged mill children on a march to end child labor. Inspiring, heartbreaking, and hopeful, this thrilling new musical following 'the most dangerous woman in America' will captivate audiences of all ages with its vibrant score blending period infused melodies with powerful contemporary anthems to deliver an uplifting message of human dignity that transcends time."
Mr. Confidential
Book and lyrics by Samuel Bernstein
Music by David Snyder
"Before TMZ and Gawker, there was Bob Harrison's Confidential Magazine. Its scandal and showbiz fizz went viral, fab 50s style, outselling T.V. Guide and Time Magazine. But scrape away the hype, whipped cream, and dirt, and what do you have? A mostly true story about heart, innocence, and family loyalty, set to a sexy, swinging, Big Broadway beat. But sshhh! Keep it confidential..."
Oprahfication
Book and lyrics by Rachel Dunham
Music by Shanon D. Whitelock
"In 2011, Oprah closed the book on 25 years of dominating global television to focus on building her new empire, the Oprah Winfrey Network. It's not been going so well. Now, Oprahfication brings her back with a one-off retrospective episode to celebrate those years and present to you the ultimate interview! The laughs are constant. Oprah's journey through gospel, mo-town, doo-wop, rock ballads, love ballads, and lullabies is a celebration of all things 'O' from her earliest beginnings to her wildest dreams. You'll love it and join in. Dare you!"
Propaganda! The Musical
Book, music and lyrics by Taylor Ferrera and Matt Webster
"Rookie doesn't know much about his family business - neither does the American Public - but covering up political scandals is in his blood. And now it's up to him to cover up the biggest scandal since Watergate! Armed with a clever idea, Rookie must fight the evil Agent X and save the bureau from doom. With an energetic, catchy score and maybe even a tap dancing president (though you didn't hear it from us...) Propaganda! The Musical is the ultimate tribute to the power of musical theatre."
Rescue Rue
Book and lyrics by Stacey Weingarten
Music and lyrics by Kate Steinberg and Joshua Zecher-Ross
"A little dog named Rue innocently wishes for a 'Happily Ever After' from her Fairy Dogmother - soon after, she's kicked out of her home and forced to embark on an emotional journey of self-discovery and belonging. Rue spends time on the street and at a pound before being rescued to NYC, where she finally finds her Furever home and realizes life is really about finding your happy beginnings! Based on the true adoption story of a a dog named Rue, this family-friendly musical is told by a colorful cast of puppets and people and is appropriate for ages 3 and up. For kids and kids at heart... especially animal lovers. There's no place like (Furever) home!"
On July 20 at 11 AM there will be an added, autism-friendly performance. Theatre Development Fund's Autism Theatre Initiative has served as a consultant on this performance.
Searching For Romeo
Book, music and lyrics by Brian Sutton
"Roz is having a bad day. Not only was she dumped by her high school boyfriend, she finds herself transported to Shakespeare's fair Verona, as Rosaline, and wanders into the balcony scene. She learns that she's been dumped again, but this time it's by Romeo. Things seem to be looking up when she forges an unlikely friendship with Juliet's rejected suitor, Paris. Can Rosaline and Paris achieve the goal which eludes Romeo and Juliet: a happy ending? With its retro-pop score, Searching for Romeo will delight fans of the Bard and of teenage romantic comedies alike."
Somewhere With You
Book by Peter Zinn
Music and lyrics by JT Harding
"Somewhere With You is a country-rock musical with music by country song writer JT Harding and features many of his hit songs made famous by Kenny Chesney, Uncle Kracker, Jake Owen, and JTX (including Chesney's number one song 'Somewhere with You' and Uncle Kracker's 'Smile'). This compellingly gritty, coming-of-age love story centers around a new generation of Southerners growing up in the early 2000s, confronted by the methamphetamine epidemic, the war in Iraq, and other post-9/11 challenges in the rural South."
The Gig
Book, music and lyrics by Douglas J. Cohen
"A used car salesman, a dentist, a real estate agent, a financial advisor, a deli owner, and a teacher put their careers and families on hold to pursue their passion - jazz - with their first professional 'gig' in the Catskills. The results are funny, touching, and unexpected. Written by Douglas J. Cohen (No Way to Treat a Lady) and based on the film by Pulitzer Prize winner Frank D. Gilroy, The Gig won a prestigious Richard Rodgers Grant and the inaugural Noël Coward Prize."
The Mapmaker's Opera
Book and lyrics by Victor Kazan
Music by Kevin Purcell
"Set in the Yucatán on the eve of the Mexican Revolution, The Mapmaker's Opera recounts the poignant story of Diego and Sofia - star-crossed lovers whose fate is sealed by a desperate quest to save two birds. The story takes place in and around Mérida, where local plantation owners ostentatiously enjoy vast wealth amassed from the toil of Mayans who from dawn to nightfall are forced to harvest the prized henequen. Inspired by Flamenco and Mariachi music, the show is certain to delight audiences of all ages."
The Snow Queen
Book by Kirsten Brandt and Rick Lombardo
Music by Haddon Kime
Lyrics by Kirsten Brandt, Haddon Kime and Rick Lombardo
Additional music by Rick Lombardo
"Be spirited away by this new musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's fantastical coming-of-age adventure. Join Gerda on a dangerous and whimsical quest to save her best friend Kai before he is trapped forever in the Snow Queen's palace. Dare to enter a world where flowers sing, animals talk, and riddles yearn to be solved. With an original pop rock score, alluring ballads, urban steam punk flair, and the enigmatic Snow Queen, you'll soon see this is not your average bedtime story."
On July 19th at 11am there will be an added, autism-friendly performance. Theatre Development Fund's Autism Theatre Initiative has served as a consultant on this performance.
The Travels
Book and lyrics by Aaron Ricciardi
Music by Kelly Hoppenjans
"Welcome to the U.S. of A. Other countries suffer biblical consequences for their filthy ways, but the U.S. of A. is the most perfect place on Earth - at least, that's what Mr. Travel preaches every day on the nation's only TV show. A trippy dystopian tale with an eclectic soundtrack, this epic play with songs follows Teeny, Mr. Travel's rule-breaker of a daughter. Teetering on adulthood and perplexed by this cruel world, Teeny learns to see past smoke and mirrors... and she starts a revolution."
Valueville
Book, music and lyrics by Rowen Casey
"Eddie awakes on his first night shift at a giant superstore where nothing is as it seems. Desperately seeking an answer as to why Corporate sent him, he learns the truth about his past through run-ins with his guarded former flame, his flighty grandmother, and his utterly monstrous coworkers. With a spirited contemporary score as colorful as its employees, Valueville is a razor-sharp comedic journey about the price we pay at the final checkout."
WikiMusical
Book and lyrics by Frank Ceruzzi and Blake J. Harris
Music by Trent Jeffords
"WikiMusical tells the epic story of two estranged brothers who find themselves, quite literally, trapped in cyberspace. To get back home, they will need help from allies like the Cuddly Kittens (who may or may not have created the Internet) and an omniscient Narrator (who may or may not be Morgan Freeman). Can the brothers reconcile their differences and defeat the evil Spam King? This satirical new musical features eleven original songs, a cast of ten, and one dial-up modem."
Zombie Stripper
Book, music and lyrics by Mark LaPierre
"What do you get when you mix the Undead, Strippers, a horrible boyfriend, a Banshee, and a pop/dance score? Zombie Strippers! Part fast-paced farce, part sweet friendship story, all sexy and hilarious, this musical takes place in one wild night in a graveyard where one has come to mourn, one has come to murder, and many have come back from the dead."
Concerts
Australian Cabaret Sensations
Unseen by Melody Beck; music and lyrics by Various Artists
Aznavourian by Evan Lever; music and lyrics by Charles Aznavour
"Heartwarming, humorous, and thought-provoking, these two solo acts come together on this evening to present their respective biopic cabarets exploring the lives of two incredible and enigmatic performing artists. Help welcome them to the stage for their respective New York debuts, and enjoy an evening of entertainment that you won't want to miss!"
Central Avenue Breakdown
Music and lyrics by Kevin Ray
Book by Kevin Ray, Andrea Lepcio and Dominic Taylor
Additional story by Suellen Vance
"A one night only concert event featuring the songs of Central Avenue Breakdown! The music, tells the story of two brothers in pursuit of one passion - jazz! Set in the sexy 1940s, when swing was hot and bop was right around the corner, this award winning jazz infused pop score won both the Excellence in Music and the Excellence in Orchestrations Awards at NYMF 2011."
Epic Fail: Broadway's Future Flops!
Created by Marc Eardley
"An evening of songs from movies that should never become musicals by the best in the business, featuring numbers from future flops such as Rambo: The other Sly Stallone Musical, Mommie Dearest: The Epic Joan Crawford Musical, The King's Speech a Royal Musical, Forrest Gump, Schindler's List, and many, many more..."
Meeting Our Heroes: A Tribute to the Composers Who Inspire Us
"Join five of musical theatre's legendary composers and five emerging songwriters for an intimate, history-making night of songs and stories as we pay tribute to the writers who inspire us. Featuring a cast of Broadway friends, this one-night-only concert honors the individuals who have made an indelible mark on the musical theater community."
Sing Me Home
Book by Amber Cassell
Music and lyrics by Kristy Hanson
"Years ago, music superstar Lexi Angel mysteriously vanished from the spotlight. On the eve of her auspicious comeback, a familiar face appears in her dressing room in need of help. As Lexi embarks on this new phase of her career, the demands of her future and shadows of her past collide, taking Lexi on a hilarious and heartfelt journey to a place she's never been before... home." This Is 30
"This Is 30, starring 2013 NYMF Next Broadway Sensation winner Erica Lustig, is the musical tale of a girl with the eating habits of a toddler, the backaches of an old-timer, and the spirit of a teenager who has unexpectedly found herself trapped in the body of a 30-year-old. An intimate show full of wit, heart, comedy (and of course, fierce belting), join her on a light-hearted journey featuring some pop, jazz, and Broadway favorites, as well as a few special self-penned originals. Whether you've yet to hit 30 or you're long past it, you'll want to laugh along with this incredible talent as she finds her way!"
'You've Got That Thing!'
By Fuzzrocket
"A 1930's jazz-inspired song contest with cash and performance prizes! Watch as finalists from Fuzzrocket's online opportunity compete in front of celebrity judges for 'Top Song' and more. For a chance to perform at You've Got That Thing!, artists can upload their auditions on Fuzzrocket.com beginning June 6, 2014. Industry veterans will choose who will go on to perform at NYMF. Fuzzrocket is a funding, exposure and collaboration resource for music, film and theatre artists."
The NYMF 2014 concert series will also include The Music Box, a celebration of female composers from all stages in their career in a one-night-only concert event, directed by Karen Azenberg; and NYMF's Student Leadership Project, a two-part concert series devoted to musical theatre student composers and performers."
Readings
210 Amlent Avenue
Book by Becky Goldberg
Music and lyrics by Karl Hinze
"Welcome to the Hamptons. Guests are gathering in the summer sun at 210 Amlent Avenue, a regal beachfront property, to visit retired actress Mrs. Jordan, and to pay their respects to her recently-deceased husband, the famous Broadway director. Everything changes when Judah, a young friend of the family, shows up seeking answers about his own dead parents. Attractions form, schemes intersect, secrets are revealed, and no one will get away unchanged."
Always, Rachel
Book and lyrics by Jessie Field
Music by Jared Field
"Author of 'Silent Spring,' which sparked the modern environmental movement, Carson led an extraordinary life. Struggling to find her place in the world as a scientist and a woman, her skill as a writer eventually brings her success and critical acclaim. However, when the destructive nature of DDT is brought to her attention, Carson jeopardizes her success, her health, and most importantly the deep relationship she shares with her neighbor Dorothy Freeman to take a stand for the earth."
At Buffalo
Book by Amma Y. Ghartey-Tagoe Kootin and Joshua Williams
Music by Khalil Sullivan
Lyrics by Khalil Sullivan, Amma Y. Ghartey-Tagoe Kootin and Joshua Williams
Co-Conceived with Jim Augustine
"It's 1901. Lynch mobs swarm the South; Emma Goldman's anarchist movement hits the streets; and W.E.B DuBois' NAACP is on the horizon. All set the stage for the spectacular Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. Let At Buffalo - and the enigmatic Light Bulb Man - take you on a haunting and evocative musical journey through the turbulent discoveries and performances of race in post-Civil War America."
For Tonight
Book by Whitney Rhodes, Spencer Williams and Shenelle Williams
Music and lyrics by Shenelle Williams and Spencer Williams
"When their parents die of a mysterious illness in their small Welsh village, surviving children Thomas, Haydon, and Nettie are forced to fend for themselves. Inspired by the gypsies who once shared their home, Haydon heads off to Liverpool, guitar in hand, to find what the world has to offer. There he meets Mirela who speaks to his wandering soul. When Haydon learns that his sister is ill, he is forced to choose between family and the life he left behind, or the freedom and love he has now found."
Guilin
Book, music and lyrics by Louis Steven Santora
"Guilin is a story about a young, Chinese American woman's journey from suburban America to Guilin, Guangxi Province, China – 'the most beautiful place under heaven.' In search of her past, she finds a father's love and discovers the real truth about her heritage." Harriet
Book by Colette Call Lofgren and J. Michael Call
Music and lyrics by Colette Call Lofgren
"Armed with faith, humor, and a hand gun, Harriet Tubman proves that anything is possible as she leads her people to freedom on the Underground Railroad. Featuring a vibrant, soulful score, this spirited new musical brings to life the remarkable story of an American heroine - a woman they called Moses. As she triumphs over tragedy, Harriet inspires with her courage, charms with her wit, and captures the hearts of generations to come."
Housewarming
Book, music and lyrics by Belinda Jenkin and William Hannagan
"Tommy is a geek: he finds it hard to maintain a conversation, let alone a relationship, so when a chance inheritance leads him to shared-housing, he is in a total rut. This could be his chance to get the girl, or at least extend his circle of friends beyond one. But the walls are whispering... will returning rehash a trauma he thought he'd forgotten? Set to a catchy indie-pop score, Housewarming is an Australian musical about a diverse group of Gen Ys' first night in a shared house. The heat is on."
Manuel Versus the Statue of Liberty
Book and lyrics by Noemi de la Puente
Music by Howard Post
"Inspired by the true story of a Princeton Undergrad who was an illegal immigrant, and got a Rhodes scholarship to study Ancient Literature. The Statue of Liberty is revamping her image. Manuel wants to be a teacher. Thrown into the ring, they fight it out - who is more American? What is American anyway? Latin music and American pop, rock, and gospel infuse the score. No one is spared in this zany political comedy that pulls no punches (pun intended) about immigration."
Save the Robots
Book by E. Ether
Music by Rob Susman
Lyrics by Clark Render
"A sci-fi rock musical based on Karel Capek's play R.U.R., which invented the word 'robot.' A new life form of artificial people called Robots has made a young businessman billions and humanity dependent on them. When the line between humans and Robots become a blur, both species must help each other to save all life on earth. Featuring a diverse musical score of epic power-pop anthems, you'll think, laugh, and appreciate what you've got a little more. To save humanity, we must Save the Robots!"
The Calico Buffalo
Book by EJ Stapleton
Music and lyrics by Peter Stopschinski and EJ Stapleton
"'We can always use a brand new legend in this old world and now we have one. The Calico Buffalo.' Liz Smith, syndicated columnist - When the first-born son to the chief of all buffalo arrives covered with the markings of a calico kitten, the chief, his son, and the entire buffalo nation are catapulted into the adventure of a lifetime. The Calico Buffalo is a compelling theatrical experience. From the first musical moment, Grammy Award-winning composer Peter Stopschinski lets us know we are in for one wonder-filled ride."
Special Events
Auditioning for the Musical Theatre: Master Class with Michael Cassara, CSA
"Work out your musical theatre audition material with guidance from a leading casting director! Michael Cassara will hear your best audition song and work with you from his unique vantage point 'behind the table.' Class will include a Q&A and a discussion of the "Business of the Business." Michael Cassara has cast more than 60 NYMF productions, and has served as the Resident Casting Director for NYMF since 2007."
Being a Singer or Instrumentalist at Cirque du Soleil
"Cirque du Soleil is seeking professional musicians for live performances in its current shows and upcoming creations. Come meet Talent Scout Séverine Parent to learn more about life at Cirque and get an insight on the casting process from the audition to the onstage experience. Don't miss this unique opportunity to get the answers to all of your questions!"
Everything's Coming Up Profits — The Golden Age of Industrial Musicals
"A discussion inspired by the book of the same name by Steve Young and Sport Murphy."
Musicals On Television
A Celebration of Mary Rodgers
July 19 from 2-5:30 PM
The Paley Center for Media
Tickets are free with Paley Center admission ($10; $8 students and seniors; $5 children under 14).
PM screening: "Once Upon a Mattress" (1964). "The first television production of the 1959 Broadway musical by composer Mary Rodgers and lyricist Marshall Barer. Starring Carol Burnett and featuring Joseph Bova, Jane White, Jack Gilford, Bill Hayes, Shani Wallis, and Elliott Gould; directed by Joe Layton and Dave Geisel. (CBS; 90 minutes)" 3:45 PM interview: "A conversation with Mary Rodgers and Martin Charnin, co-moderated by Ted Chapin and Bill Rudman."
4:30 PM screening: "Feathertop" (1961). "The musical-fantasy Feathertop, which was commissioned for television and broadcast in October 1961, has music by Mary Rodgers and lyrics by Martin Charnin and is based on the Hawthorne tale of a witch who transforms a scarecrow into a man. Starring Jane Powell, Hugh O'Brian, Cathleen Nesbitt, and Hans Conried; directed by Dean Whitmore. (ABC; 60 minutes)"
Musical Songwriting Workshop
"This introductory workshop leads participants through an authentic musical theatre songwriting process. Explore the relationship between music and language. Learn key songwriting tools. Discover the power of collaboration. Perform original work. Receive guidance and feedback in a safe and open environment. Open to individuals and teams of all backgrounds. Space is extremely limited; applications will be accepted until June 20."
Prospect Theater Company's Summer Intensive Showcase
"An original musical revue starring the talented teens from Prospect Theater Company's Summer Intensive Training Program, this showcase features an array of brand-new songs by some of New York's most exciting emerging writers as well as student-generated material."
