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Episode

Brooke deRosa Brings Bold New Musicals to NYC Stage!

Podcast
The Roundtable with Robert Bannon
Published
May 3, 2026
Duration seconds
1237
Processing state
processed
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Summary

Composer and director Brooke deRosa discusses her transition from classical training to producing her own musical double feature in NYC. She shares how she bypassed industry gatekeepers by founding her own production company to bring original works to the stage.

Topics

  • Musical Theater
  • Broadway
  • Composer
  • New York City Theater
  • Independent Production
  • Musical Comedy
  • Music Composition
  • Performing Arts

Highlights

  • Main idea: Brooke deRosa uses a multi-hyphenate approach, combining composing, conducting, and producing to launch original musical comedies
  • Practical takeaway: When facing industry rejection, creators can bypass traditional gatekeepers by producing their own low-stakes fringe productions
  • Failure mode: Relying solely on external 'yeses' from established companies can stall the development of new, original works
  • Creative insight: DeRosa blends diverse musical styles, from Gilbert & Sullivan-style Westerns to operatic influences in sci-fi robot narratives
  • Success driver: Using existing skills in film scoring and conducting to build a versatile portfolio that supports independent theater production

Chapters

  1. 1:00 Musical Inspirations: A look at how childhood influences like The Muppets and Phantom of the Opera shaped deRosa's career path.
  2. 4:00 From Opera to Composition: DeRosa discusses her transition from classical soprano training and film scoring to musical theater writing.
  3. 8:00 The Double Feature: An exploration of the contrasting musical styles in 'Gunfight at the Not-So-OK Saloon' and 'Does Not Compute'.
  4. 10:00 The Rise of Trial Run Productions: How the frustration of seeking permission led deRosa to create her own production company to move projects forward.
  5. 13:00 Artistic Intentions: Discussing the goal of returning to the 'Golden Age' musical style to create emotional resonance with modern audiences.
  6. 15:00 A Versatile Career: DeRosa shares experiences conducting for major artists and performing on late-night television.
  7. 17:00 New York Stage Details: Information on upcoming performances at the John Cullum Theater and how to find more of deRosa's work.