MUSICAL THEATRE FEST

In July 2020, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton became the most streamed show in the United States. The viewership on Disney+ was so large that it easily surpassed the number of people who had seen the show live on Broadway. So, it’s no secret that streaming audiences love musical theater. With shows like "Ridley Jones," "John Mulaney & the Sack Lunch Bunch" and "Schmigadoon!" The streets of streaming are teeming with musical theater talent. Is the obsession here to stay? How do studio executives view musical theater talent? What are they excited about bringing to audiences next?

Panelists: Anton Monsted (Amazon Studios), Jay Stutler (Disney Television Animation), David Taylor (Apple TV+)

In 2023, it’s clear that social media is breaking down the barriers to entry for young musical theater writers. Now you can hear the stories of how those writers are utilizing the latest technology to create viral moments and pave the way for global collaboration.

Panelists: Abigail Barlow, Kate Leonard, and Daniel Mertzlufft

Join a group of pro music creators for a wide-ranging discussion about their experiences working with the top Hollywood studios on musical projects. They’ll talk career motivations, creative approaches, and tips for how you, too, can build a bridge from Broadway to Hollywood and back again.

Panelists: Eli Bolin, Pippa Cleary, Joriah Kwamé, Gabe Sokoloff, and Liz Suggs

“Music business” has two words – and “business” is longer than “music!” Today’s top industry executives will provide practical advice on how you should build your team, protect your musical works, and set yourself up for success.

Panelists: Sue Drew (Kobalt Music) & Richard Kraft (Kraft-Engel Agency)

Take a trip to the magical musical world of Cinco Paul. He’ll discuss his journey from celebrated screenwriter (Despicable Me, The Lorax, The Secret Life of Pets) to Emmy-winning songwriter (2022’s Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics for “Corn Puddin’” from “Schmigadoon!”). We’ll dive deep into the world of “Schmigadoon!” and discuss his latest move to Schmicago!

Panelist: Cinco Paul

Michael Kooman & Chris Dimond, the songwriting team behind “Vampirina” and “Ridley Jones,” present a workshop breaking down the life cycle of a song written for an animated streaming series. From concept to demo to show delivery, Kooman & Dimond will provide an in-depth look into a day in the life of an Emmy-nominated composer/lyricist.

Panelists: Michael Kooman, Chris Dimond

What does it take to get your song in a streaming series? Emerging ASCAP members will put their talents on display and get real-time feedback on songs submitted for review by the creative team at Netflix. The executives will illustrate the process of pitching yourself for consideration and give practical takeaways on what the studios are looking for when hiring and working with composers and lyricists.

Panelists: Netflix's John McGrew, Stephen Chesley, Samantha Hilscher, Sarah McMullen & Elisa Rice

Pasek & Paul hit The Wallis stage to discuss what it’s like to produce some of the most beloved music for the contemporary stage and screen. From their work on television (musical episodes of “Smash” and “The Flash”), film (The Greatest Showman, La La Land), and their massive Broadway hits (Dear Evan Hansen, A Christmas Story), they’ll cover it all. They will also break down their process on streaming hits like Apple TV+’s new holiday classic Spirited. Who knows what special guests might show up or who might hit the piano to illustrate just what makes these two the golden boys of streaming musicals?

Panelists: Benj Pasek & Justin Paul