Navigating the Journey to Broadway: A Guide for Aspiring Playwrights

Broadway has long been the pinnacle of theatrical success, and every aspiring playwright dreams of seeing their work performed on that iconic stage. But how does one get there? In this article, we will explore the key steps and processes involved in bringing a musical to Broadway, drawing on insights from my personal experience and guiding those looking to embark on this exciting journey.

Step One: Writing the Show

The foundation of any Broadway production begins with the script. If your show is based on previously existing material such as a book or film, securing the necessary rights is an essential first step. Once you have the rights and have crafted an initial draft, it is crucial to conduct readings and workshops. These sessions allow you to refine the work and gather feedback from critics, peers, and potential investors.

Step Two: Developing the Show

Developing a show is a collaborative process that involves the creative and producing teams. Depending on the nature of your project, you may need to conduct multiple workshops and readings. Some shows may only require one or two, while others may go through numerous rounds of development over several years. This period is crucial for honing the script and bringing the vision to life.

Step Three: An Out of Town Run

Once your show is sufficiently developed, it is common to perform it off-Broadway, or "out of town." This production allows you to test the show in front of live audiences, gather valuable feedback, and potentially attract the attention of Broadway investors and theater owners. Notable venues for these runs include theaters in Los Angeles and New York, as they are often the first ports of call for burgeoning shows.

Real World Examples

Let's take a look at some real-world examples from shows I have been involved with:

Leap of Faith

My role was as an Assistant Conductor, Keyboardist, and Synth Programmer:

Initial Workshop in Los Angeles Workshop in New York Another Workshop in New York Out of town run in Los Angeles Broadway production in New York

Sister Act

I served as Associate Conductor and Keyboardist:

Workshop in Los Angeles Production at the Pasadena Playhouse Run in Atlanta

Note that I was not involved in the Broadway production.

Aladdin

My roles included Synth Programmer, as well as recording some of the keyboard parts for the Tokyo production:

Out of town run at the 5th Avenue Playhouse in Seattle Out of town run in Toronto, Ontario Broadway opening

Conclusion

Broadway is an unwavering goal for many theater professionals, and the journey to realize this dream requires dedication, hard work, and often, a significant amount of time. From writing the show, to developing it through multiple workshops and readings, and finally, through an out of town run, each step is critical in bringing your vision to the bright lights of Broadway. While the path is challenging, the rewards are immense, and for those who persevere, the opportunity to perform on Broadway is truly a dream come true.