Since 2014, The Billy Rose Theatre Division at the Library for the Performing Arts has presented Across a Crowded Room, a free, semi-annual program that provides a space for musical theatre writers and performers, and experts to network, create new work together, and develop their skills. In the 2023 edition, we welcome theatre-makers to create a 20-minute musical with guidance from experts, such as Helen Park and Michael Korie.

In the first meeting in person, participants will get to know each other and form groups of three or more to work together over the course of the summer. In three additional sessions to meet online, participants will present their work to established composers, lyricists, and book writers for feedback and advice. The program will conclude with an in-person presentation of the musicals at the Library for the Performing Arts this fall.

This year’s timeline:

• June 24, 2023 (11 am-1 pm): In-person meet and greet at the Library
• July 8, 2023 (11 am-1 pm): Online Lyrics Workshop (Michael Korie)
• July 22, 2023 (11 am-1 pm): Online Music workshop (Helen Park)

One more workshop on Book Writing TBD

Final presentations November 18, 2023, live in the Bruno Walter Auditorium

All participants should be able to attend the first meeting in person at the Library for the Performing Arts and plan to be in New York City in November of 2023.

Photo Credit: Martha Swope, 1983.

Photo Description: Broadway director-choreographer Michael Bennett with the collective cast of “A Chorus Line, ” gathered to perform a giant version of the show to celebrate it’s becoming Broadway’s longest-running show.

Free!

Registration