Academy Member Fred Rohan-Vargas is an experienced playwright and composer and recently was accepted in the 2021 BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop.
Getting Started:
Writing, Collaboration & Development
You’ve got an idea for a musical and are ready to get started. Here are some helpful articles on writing, community and collaboration, tech and software tips, and more!
4 Tips for Writing Better Lyrics
Ready to get started writing lyrics for your musical? Here are 4 tips to help you create songs that stand out and stay true to your story.
Book Review: Working on a Song: The Lyrics of HADESTOWN
Anais Mitchell’s “Working on a Song: The Lyrics of Hadestown” gives insights into lyric-writing, book-writing and story-crafting.
By the Light of Metaphor: Improving the Odds of Making Good Metaphors
In Part I, we discovered how Stephen Schwartz developed metaphorical language based on research, observation, and character inspiration. In Part II, we explore ways to enhance your own image-making abilities in order to amplify the emotional impact of your lyrics or dialogue.
By the Light of Metaphor: Experiences of Metaphor-Maker Stephen Schwartz
From whole-song metaphors like “Meadowlark” and “Beautiful City” to the nature-inspired similes of “For Good,” Stephen Schwartz is a master of imagery-filled lyrics that represent an emotional journey.
3 Reasons to Learn Industry-Standard Writing and Music Software
Using task-specific, industry-standard software and technology can help you create a script that leaps off the page and music that soars.
Feedback: What ACTORS Want You to Know
Magic happens when an ACTOR breathes life into a character. Welcoming their input will help you make giant strides in your show’s development. Here are some wise insights from veteran Broadway actors.
Orchestrating a New Musical: The Wind Section
The musical theatre orchestra wind section includes both woodwind and brass instruments and can be used to provide color, texture, and a big band jazz sound.
10 Tips for Creating Successful Collaborations
Have someone in mind that you’d like a potential collaboration partnership with? Don’t enter that relationship lightly. Steve Cuden, co-creator of the musical Jekyll and Hyde and author of Beating Broadway shares tips on successful collaborations.
Coaching
Script and Score Diagnostic
FREE DOWNLOAD
Use this helpful checklist to evaluate your own musical or analyze your favorite shows.