#USA #Beverly Hills #Stephen Schwartz #ASCAP Festival #Musical Theatre

Celebrating Musical Theatre: A Look at the 2025 ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre Fest

The world of musical theatre is ever-evolving, and this year, it receives a spectacular spotlight at the upcoming ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre Fest. Legendary composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz, famous for his works like Wicked and Godspell, will take center stage as the host of the event, promising an unforgettable experience on May 5 and 6 at The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills.

A Unique Celebration of Creativity

Returning for its third year, this musical theatre fest offers a rarity in the theatre community—a chance for aspiring artists and enthusiasts to dive deep into the craft of musical theatre. With tracks in both performance and workshop formats, attendees will be treated to a night filled with insight, creativity, and inspiration from top Broadway composers.

The festival kicks off on May 5 with the captivating evening titled Songs from the Cutting Room Floor. This unique presentation sheds light on the unheard gems—those magnificent songs that didn’t make the final cut for Broadway productions. Along with Stephen Schwartz, notable composers like Irene Sankoff and David Hein (Come From Away) and Karey Kirkpatrick (Something Rotten!, Mrs. Doubtfire) will share intimate performances and enlightening backstories on these cherished compositions that never saw the stage. These stories highlight the tough decisions composers face in the creative process, offering a glimpse into the heart of musical theatre.

On the following night, May 6, the excitement continues with the ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre Librettist Workshop. This event will present an extraordinary double bill featuring fresh musical works that could very well be on tomorrow’s Broadway marquee. Emerging composers will showcase excerpts from their new musicals, receiving live feedback from industry veterans, including Schwartz himself during engaging feedback sessions. The workshop begins with the emerging talents of Roslyn Catracchia and Peter Seibert, presenting their exciting new musical Piney Needlesmith and the Road Less Traveled. The innovative duo Julian Hornik, Khiyon Hursey, and Mark Sonnenblick will follow, sharing selections from their compelling new work, WEEKEND.

The night promises a blend of new voices and seasoned experience, enriching the tapestry of musical theatre.

Venue and Accessibility

Both nights of the festival are free, although reservations are required. Attendees can secure their spots by visiting TheWallis.org for both concert and workshop details. Taking place at The Wallis, located at 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA, this venue has earned its stripes as one of the foremost arts hubs in Los Angeles since opening in 2013. Celebrated for its commitment to fostering creativity and presenting diverse programming, The Wallis offers a perfect backdrop for this year’s fest.

At the heart of the ASCAP Foundation is the mission to support American creators through education and development, making this event crucial in nurturing the next generation of musical theatre artists. As the foundation celebrates its 50th anniversary, moments like these demonstrate its significance within the artistic community.

For those wishing to explore the world of musical theatre, the ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre Fest promises to be a beacon of inspiration, creativity, and collaboration. Be sure to mark your calendars and experience the best of what musical theatre has to offer.

About ASCAP and The Wallis

The ASCAP Foundation, founded in 1975, focuses on supporting music creators, offering various programs like songwriting workshops, awards, and scholarship opportunities. They continue to be integral in the journey of many thriving artists.

The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts provides a nurturing environment for local, national, and international performers, hosting an eclectic range of events that have earned them numerous awards and recognitions.

In summary, the 2025 ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre Fest stands as a pillar of creative exploration and artistic growth—an event not to be missed for anyone connected to the world of theatre.