My Shows
As a musical theatre writer, I am driven by the transformative power of storytelling through the collaboration of music and drama. Each story, usually about an ordinary person achieving extraordinary things, has the ability to inspire and transform the world around us. My goal for each piece is to take you on an unforgettable journey through an epic tale or simplistic beauty, granting you the freedom to experience hope, heartbreak, and a little magic.
Downloadable
Perusal Script
The White Rose
Book & Lyrics by Derek P. Hassler
An exciting and daring new rock musical about an unknown chapter in WWII history.
In 1942, Germany is in a state of total war. Seeing the effects of the war on their country, six students at the University of Munich band together to begin a non-violent underground resistance movement. The group begins a secret leaflet campaign denouncing the party, risking their lives in the process.
Based on a true story, the members of the White Rose are now considered amongst Germany’s greatest heroes. In the face of almost certain death, they opposed the Third Reich, and left a mark for generations to come. The White Rose celebrates the beauty of youth, revolt, and the noble act of standing up for what you believe in against all odds.
Queen of the West
Book & Lyrics by Derek P. Hassler
Music by Landon Braverman
An epic tale of love, ambition, and the effects of the American dream. Queen of the West is a new musical based on Theodore Dreiser's groundbreaking turn-of-the-century novel "Sister Carrie."
In 1901, Carrie Meeber, a young naïve Wisconsin farm girl moves to Chicago dreaming of a bigger and more exciting life. Upon her arrival, she moves in with her sister and discovers that it's next to impossible to break out of the lower class; however, after catching the eye of rising young journalist Charlie Drouet, and later the well-to-do resort manager George Hurstwood, she climbs the ranks of society, eventually becoming the biggest theatre star in New York City. But her story isn’t all it appears to be after the Chicago Tribune hires her first lover, Charlie Drouet, to recount her mysterious rise to fame.
Downloadable
Perusal Script
Downloadable
Perusal Script
Picture Perfect
Book & Lyrics by Derek P. Hassler
Music by Landon Braverman
After losing his wife in a tragic car accident, Michael must fight his internal voices to avoid falling deeper into despair. He is haunted by the vision of his wife's unfinished painting. As he fights to move on, Michel discovers it's not moving on that will bring him closure, it's embracing the perfect moments and memories of those we love most.
Picture Perfect is a short musical and runs approximately 20 minutes.
Last Resort
Book & Lyrics by Derek P. Hassler
Music by Helen Park
Laura's second marriage to Tom is going to be great. While she will do anything to ensure this honeymoon ends up better than the last one, after a series of unfortunate events (including a surprise visit from her storm chasing ex-husband, John), Laura's not sure if this marriage is strong enough to last. As a hurricane brews off the horizon, Laura's ex-husband may surprisingly hold the key to keeping Laura and Tom together.
Last Resort is a short musical and runs approximately 25 minutes.
Downloadable
Perusal Script
Downloadable
Perusal Script
CHOICES
Book & Lyrics by Derek P. Hassler
Music by Landon Braverman
The year is 1970, and America is at war.
On the eve of Ty's 19th birthday, Mark receives word that he has been drafted into the Vietnam War. Torn between his friendship with Ty and his duties to his country, decisions must be made, and the friendship between the two will never be the same. With an exciting new rock score, Choices is a heartfelt and honest story about the challenges friends must face and our loss of innocence.
Choices is a short musical and runs approximately 15 minutes.