Beau features eight actor-musicians telling the story of Ace Baker – a young man whose life is altered when he discovers the grandfather his mother kept hidden is still alive. Family secrets unravel as Ace rushes to make up for the lost time with a man who changes his life and puts a guitar in his hand.
Beau is conceptualized by and features a book and lyrics by Douglas Lyons (Chicken and Biscuits), as well as a pop-country score by Ethan D. Pakchar (Back to The Future) and Lyons. Beau was cast by Robin Carus, CSA. Chris Gurr (The Prom) serves as musical director with Jared Lee, music assistant, and Sarah G. Harris (Parade), stage manager.
Beau, originally developed at The Directors Company, has had previous readings and concerts in collaboration with MTF, a nonprofit developmental incubator, accelerator, and laboratory founded by Shakina Nayfack. Now in its 10th year, and currently led by Brisa Areli Muñoz and Aaron Salley, MTF is more committed to its mission of developing changemaking new musicals in a joyous, collaborative community free from commercial constraints than ever. You can learn more about the Factory at mtf.nyc.