Discovering Broadway Inc, a developmental lab that allows Broadway creative teams to develop new works while enriching the public, has announced the premiere of its second developmental season.
The first Writers Retreat of 2022 will take place from May 12 through May 23. The new musical will have a book, lyrics, and music by Zack Zadek, and is untitled. He will be joined by director Sammi Cannold (Evita at New York City Center), who is also a conceiver on the piece. A special concert premiering the music will be presented at The Cabaret in Indianapolis May 21, featuring two New York City–based actors, and three Greater Indianapolis Area–based actors. Audition information is forthcoming.
“This is the first Writer’s Retreat where a full draft of the new musical does not yet exist," shares Discovering Broadway Founder and Chief Executive Officer Joel Kirk. "It’s exhilarating to think Zack will compose and workshop the entire piece at Discovering Broadway. I wanted to program this musical, which explores addiction and recovery, during May which is Mental Health Awareness Month.”
"I couldn't be more thrilled to be joining Discovering Broadway to workshop this new musical," adds Zadek. "We're grateful to Joel and his team for throwing their full support behind this piece from the ground floor and are looking forward to giving the very first glimpse to audiences in the area.”
"This opportunity to ideate, experiment, shape, and iterate will be simply invaluable in the development of our new musical, and we're looking forward to sharing what we're working on with the Discovering Broadway community and dialoguing with them about the work—more than I can express," says Cannold. "I've had several colleagues from the Broadway community rave about their experiences working with Joel and the Discovering Broadway community and I'm quite thrilled to have this opportunity."
Discovering Broadway believes that theatre is for all. The nonprofit hosted two classes for 30 students and sponsored 10 at-risk youth.
Last month, the first master classes of the season were taught by Mean Girls and Girls5Eva star Erika Henningsen.
“Working with Discovering Broadway exceeded my expectations," shares Henningsen. I can’t wait for fellow Broadway artists to experience this organization. DB is a fully realized artistic and educational endeavor in the heart of Indiana which provides space and support for the next generation of creators. I do not know of a single organization like it! Teaching kids is one of my great passions and doing it with Discovering Broadway was a dream!”
To learn more about Discovering Broadway, please visit discoveringbroadway.org.
