Developing New Musicals in University Theatre Programs: A Practical Guide

By Alisa Hauser and Kathleen Wrinn

Why should I develop a new musical at my university?
Where would I even find one?
And if I did, how would I structure rehearsals?
Handle new pages?
Share an unfinished product with an audience?
And most importantly, support both writers and students through the collaborative process?

Developing New Musicals in University Theatre Programs: A Practical Guide equips musical theatre educators with the tools, strategies, and insights needed to bring new musicals to life with their students. From a single staged reading to a full mainstage production, this book serves as a companion for any educator embarking on this work for the first time-as well as those already deep in it and looking to refine their creative and collaborative practices.

Co-written by two university professors who each built and lead new musical initiatives at their own institutions-and who are themselves musical theatre writers and performers-this first-of-its-kind text pairs hands-on resources (mock rehearsal calendars, script evaluation rubrics, rehearsal room guidelines, audience talkback formats, and more) with hard-won tips and best practices.

Drawing on over a hundred interviews with leading faculty and professional writers from across the US and UK, as well as students who have lived these processes firsthand, this go-to guidebook supports fellow educators through every step-and misstep-of the developmental process, from script selection to opening night.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1350503401
• ISBN13: 9781350503403
• Release Date: July 2027
• Publisher: Methuen Drama
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 1.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.1" x 9.2"