A musical is only as good as its libretto. Great songs alone can’t get you produced without a strong story that drives forward from the initial moment of conflict to the final moment of discovery. This advanced-level 10-week class is designed for writers who are in the process of developing a musical. Class time will be devoted to workshopping your musical-in-progress while exploring techniques of scene structure, thematic resonance, theatrical devices, song placement, and dramatic tension. You will also look at successful musicals to figure out how they apply these principles and ultimately what makes them tick. At the start of class, you will work with Kait to establish a clear goal for the 10 weeks (first draft, second draft of the first act, new draft with a new collaborator, etc.). By the end of the semester, you will be expected to achieve this goal and define your next target.

PREREQUISITE:

Libretto I at ESPA; Experienced writers who are new to ESPA can submit a full scene-by-scene treatment of a musical that they want to develop over the semester, which should be no less than 3 pages and no more than 10 pages. Materials must be recieved by February 1st to be considered for admission into the class per instructor’s approval.