Village Theatre Supports the Development of New Musicals

Million Dollar Quartet Photo: Jay Koh

Village Theatre's mission stipulates a dedication to the development of new musicals that achieve national exposure, and the Village Originals program of readings, workshops, developmental productions, and Mainstage productions represents one of the strongest commitments to new musicals in the nation. Village Theatre is one of the few resident theatres to provide regular opportunities at every step of musical development, from first table reading to full-scale premiere production—two new works each season are part of Village Theatre’s five-show lineup alongside the classics.

Village Theatre exists and thrives as an ongoing testament to the vitality of musical theatre; the Village Originals program, anchored by the annual Festival of New Musicals, represents a dedication to the form's continued growth and evolution, and a determination that America's musical theatre will remain vibrant and relevant for generations to come. The annual Festival of New Musicals held each summer in August, draws participants from all over the country, even internationally.

Stunt Girl Photo: Jay Koh

Village Theatre actively participates with National Alliance for Musical Theatre (NAMT) in identifying and developing new musical projects. Executive Producer Robb Hunt serves on the Board of NAMT and Co-Chairs the New Works Committee. This past summer, Village Theatre hosted NAMT’s New Works Summit 2009 focusing on "Regional Models of Producing New Musicals." Artistic Directors and Producers from around the country participated in the Summit and attended Village Theatre’s 9th Annual Festival of New Musicals. Village Theatre has gotten to the point where our reputation has attracted national attention.