Directing: The Debut Performance of "Common Thread: A New Musical"

As an undergrad, I had the amazing opportunity to direct a staged reading of new work, Common Thread, written and composed by my fellow English and Theatre student, Anna Hayman.

Anna Hayman, now an aspiring playwright, approached me with the task of directing a staged reading, I was nervous to say the least. I had directed many short scenes and one act pieces but had never attempted, or even attended, a staged reading. But I was eager to be a part of her project. Together, Hayman and I cast, rehearsed, and produced a staged reading of her self-written and composed musical, Common Thread, in a matter of four days.

Common Thread is a two act musical in which young actor Ben Devereaux secures a role in a musical whose plot uncannily resembles the events of his own life. Throughout the rehearsal process, Ben is drawn to the sweet Adelynn, the show's accompanist, while also battling against suspicion of the show's writer and director, Matt Chevlin. In two acts, Common Thread explores the complicated tapestry of a troubled youth who is simultaneously running from and towards his traumatic past.

The staged reading performed on April 10, 2019 for an excited audience comprised of university students and community artists.