Schitt's Creek composer-arranger Aaron Jensen has joined the writing team for the in-development musical The Cat's Meow, being adapted from the 1997 play of the same name. Playwright Steven Peros is adapting his own work for the musical's book.

The story follows an infamous alleged murder mystery aboard William Randolph Hearst's giant yacht in 1924. On board were Hearst's mistress, Marion Davies; Charlie Chaplin; and journalist Louella Parsons. The play got the big screen treatment in 2002, starring Kirsten Dunst with direction by Peter Bogdonovich.

The project has been in the works for several years, formerly with Brandon Scott Grayson serving as composer.

“I'm thrilled to dive into this project with Steven. I devoured the libretto,” says Jensen in a statement. “The Cat's Meow has all of the makings of a great musical: drama, intrigue, clever wordplay, a tangled love story, and a dynamic cast of characters.”

“After an exhaustive search for a composer who was gifted, experienced, and with whom I clicked aesthetically and professionally, the choice became very clear, even in a field with some very seasoned and gifted composers,” adds Peros. “Aaron understands both the play’s wit and emotional landscape. He is a collaborator in the truest sense in that he cares about every facet of the storytelling.”

Peros and Jensen hope to present the musical to producers in early 2025.