Doug Besterman
Also Credited As: Douglas Besterman
Latest News on Doug Besterman:
BOOP! THE MUSICAL North American Tour Will Open in Rochester in Fall 2026 (Nov 5, 2025)
Daniel Brocklebank Will Lead YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL Liverpool Playhouse Transfer (Oct 31, 2025)
Video: Mel Brooks’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL Opens At Hope Mill Theatre (Oct 30, 2025)
BOOP! THE MUSICAL North American Tour Will Open in Rochester in Fall 2026 (Nov 5, 2025)
Daniel Brocklebank Will Lead YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL Liverpool Playhouse Transfer (Oct 31, 2025)
Video: Mel Brooks’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL Opens At Hope Mill Theatre (Oct 30, 2025)
BIO
DOUG BESTERMAN is a three-time Tony Award winning musician with a career spanning across theatre, film, television and recording. As a Composer, Producer, Arranger, and Orchestrator, he has been privileged to work with some of the most recognizable names in the industry, including composers Mel Brooks, Alan Menken, and Marc Shaiman; recording artists Barbra Streisand and Barry Manilow; and directors Rob Marshall and Susan Stroman.
A veteran of 25+ Broadway shows, Besterman won the Best Orchestrations Tony Award® for Fosse, The Producers, and Thoroughly Modern Millie, and was nominated for The Music Man (2000), How to Succeed in Business, and Bullets over Broadway. He was also awarded the Drama Desk Award for The Producers and Thoroughly Modern Millie. His most recent Broadway credits include Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, A Bronx Tale, and Anastasia.
Besterman has also written orchestrations for 20+ film and television projects; including recent film work on Mary Poppins Returns, Aladdin (2019), Beauty and the Beast (2017) and Frozen; and American Housewife, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, and Galavant for television.
As a composer, Besterman penned the scores for the podcast musical Little Did I Know (with lyricists Dean Pitchford and Marcy Heisler), currently available for download on Apple Podcasts; The Big One-Oh (with lyricist Dean Pitchford), which recently premiered at The Atlantic For Kids in NYC, and is available for licensing through Music Theater International (MTI); and the vignette “Swelling and Irritation” (with lyricist Sharon Vaughn) from the musical Breathe, also to be licensed by MTI - concept album to be released by Sony. His music has also been recorded by singer Christian Bautista, heard in the films The Punisher, Out of Step and Exit Speed, television shows Summerland and One Life To Live, in concert with the United States Military Academy Concert Band, and in the musical revue Hats.
He is a proud father, husband, and sommelier. When not in New York or Los Angeles working, Doug is an avid traveler. Follow his latest adventures at @DougBesterman.
Photos
Productions
Writing
Music
Awards and Nominations
Drama Desk Awards - 2025 - Outstanding Orchestrations
Doug Besterman, BOOP! The Musical
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2025 - Outstanding Orchestrations (Broadway or Off-Broadway)
Doug Besterman, Death Becomes Her
Drama Desk Awards - 2017 - Outstanding Orchestrations
Doug Besterman, Anastasia
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2017 - Outstanding Orchestrations
Doug Besterman, Anastasia
Tony Awards - 2014 - Best Orchestrations
Doug Besterman, Bullets Over Broadway: The Musical
Tony Awards - 2011 - Best Orchestrations
Doug Besterman, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
Drama Desk Awards - 2007 - Outstanding Orchestrations
Doug Besterman, Young Frankenstein
winner
Tony Awards - 2002 - Best Orchestrations
Doug Besterman, Thoroughly Modern Millie
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2001 - Outstanding Orchestrations
Doug Besterman, The Producers
winner
Tony Awards - 2001 - Best Orchestrations
Doug Besterman, The Producers
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2000 - Outstanding Orchestrations
Doug Besterman, The Music Man
Tony Awards - 2000 - Best Orchestrations
Doug Besterman, The Music Man
Videos
Video: Mel Brooks’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL Opens At Hope Mill Theatre
by A.A. Cristi - 2025-10-29 21:31:07
Video: Michael Park Sings 'Rebellious Children' in MYTHIC at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park
by Michael Major - 2025-09-26 15:47:12
Video: Watch an Early Test For BOOP!'s Color-Changing Act Two Opening
by Michael Major - 2025-07-03 10:49:52
Video: Bella Coppola Performs 'Let Me Be Your Star' in SMASH on Broadway
by Michael Major - 2025-05-28 15:59:52
Video: Watch Robyn Hurder and Cast Perform 'Let's Be Bad' From SMASH
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-05-22 14:02:21
Video: Robyn Hurder and SMASH Cast Perform 'Let Me Be Your Star' on THE KELLY CLARKSON SHOW
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-05-20 11:16:34
Video: Watch SMASH Star Bella Coppola Perform the National Anthem at the Mets Game
by Michael Major - 2025-05-19 11:38:20
Video: SMASH Cast Performs 'I Never Met A Wolf Who Didn't Love To Howl' on THE VIEW
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-05-16 14:15:09
Video: Watch Caroline Bowman Sing 'They Just Keep Moving The Line' in SMASH
by Michael Major - 2025-05-14 15:40:23
Video: Watch Jasmine Amy Rogers Sing 'Something to Shout About' From BOOP!
by Michael Major - 2025-03-11 10:51:49
Video: Watch Robyn Hurder & Caroline Bowman Sing 'Don't Forget Me' From SMASH
by Michael Major - 2025-03-10 14:44:41
Video: Watch the Cast of BOOP! THE MUSICAL Rehearse For Their Broadway Run
by Michael Major - 2025-02-20 16:26:03
Video: Watch the First SCHMIGADOON! Teaser From the Kennedy Center
by Michael Major - 2024-12-27 13:31:59
Video: Megan Hilty, Jennifer Simard & More in DEATH BECOMES HER
by Chloe Rabinowitz - 2024-11-20 10:46:23
Video/Photos: Megan Hilty, Jennifer Simard, Michelle Williams & More in DEATH BECOMES HER
by Joshua Wright - 2024-05-18 23:39:44
VIDEO: Megan Hilty & Jennifer Simard Talk DEATH BECOMES HER on WGN9 Chicago
by Joshua Wright - 2024-05-02 16:20:17
Photos & Video: Get a First Look at BOOP! THE BETTY BOOP MUSICAL
by Chloe Rabinowitz - 2023-12-05 12:43:48
VIDEO: Watch Broadway's Best Unite for 'You Are Enough' Music Video
by Nicole Rosky - 2022-05-10 12:00:20
VIDEO: Cinco Paul and Bekah Brunstetter in Conversation On A.D. 16
by Alan Henry - 2022-02-11 10:01:17
VIDEO: Creatives of A.D. 16 at Olney Theatre Center Discuss the Show's Themes
by Stephi Wild - 2022-02-04 10:35:55
News
BOOP! THE MUSICAL North American Tour Will Open in Rochester in Fall 2026
by Stephi Wild - Nov 5, 2025
BOOP! The Musical will embark on a North American Tour, opening for its 50-week run in Rochester, NY at the West Herr Auditorium Theatre. Additional tour cities, dates, and casting for the North American Tour will be announced soon.
by Stephi Wild - Nov 5, 2025
BOOP! The Musical will embark on a North American Tour, opening for its 50-week run in Rochester, NY at the West Herr Auditorium Theatre. Additional tour cities, dates, and casting for the North American Tour will be announced soon.
Daniel Brocklebank Will Lead YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL Liverpool Playhouse Transfer
by Stephi Wild - Oct 31, 2025
Coronation Street's Daniel Brocklebank will be taking over the role of Dr Frederick Frankstein in their production of Mel Brooks' YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL when it transfers to Liverpool Playhouse for a limited 5-week run.
by Stephi Wild - Oct 31, 2025
Coronation Street's Daniel Brocklebank will be taking over the role of Dr Frederick Frankstein in their production of Mel Brooks' YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL when it transfers to Liverpool Playhouse for a limited 5-week run.
Video: Mel Brooks’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL Opens At Hope Mill Theatre
by A.A. Cristi - Oct 30, 2025
Hope Mill Theatre in Manchester celebrates its 10th anniversary with Mel Brooks’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL, starring Ore Oduba. Check out video highlights of the production.
by A.A. Cristi - Oct 30, 2025
Hope Mill Theatre in Manchester celebrates its 10th anniversary with Mel Brooks’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL, starring Ore Oduba. Check out video highlights of the production.
Video: DEATH BECOMES HER Cast Performs ‘Don’t Say I Didn’t (Warn You)’ on TODAY
by Josh Sharpe - Oct 23, 2025
Michelle Williams and the cast of Broadway’s Death Becomes Her joined TODAY on Thursday to celebrate the first anniversary of the show and performed “Don’t Say I Didn’t (Warn You).' Check out the performance now.
by Josh Sharpe - Oct 23, 2025
Michelle Williams and the cast of Broadway’s Death Becomes Her joined TODAY on Thursday to celebrate the first anniversary of the show and performed “Don’t Say I Didn’t (Warn You).' Check out the performance now.
Video: Dee Roscioli Debuts as 'Helen Sharp' in DEATH BECOMES HER
by Michael Major - Oct 22, 2025
Watch a video of Dee Roscioli making her debut as 'Helen Sharp' in Death Becomes Her on Broadway on Tuesday night. She has been on for Megan Hilty in the past, but played Jennifer Simard's role for the first time.
by Michael Major - Oct 22, 2025
Watch a video of Dee Roscioli making her debut as 'Helen Sharp' in Death Becomes Her on Broadway on Tuesday night. She has been on for Megan Hilty in the past, but played Jennifer Simard's role for the first time.
Betsy Wolfe Will Take Over as 'Madeline Ashton' in DEATH BECOMES HER
by Nicole Rosky - Oct 20, 2025
Betsy Wolfe will take over as ‘Madeline Ashton’ in DEATH BECOMES HER starting January 16, 2026, replacing Megan Hilty. Get the latest updates!
by Nicole Rosky - Oct 20, 2025
Betsy Wolfe will take over as ‘Madeline Ashton’ in DEATH BECOMES HER starting January 16, 2026, replacing Megan Hilty. Get the latest updates!
Jack Ducat and More to Lead ELF THE MUSICAL Tour This Holiday Season
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 29, 2025
The full cast has been revealed for the brand-new tour of Elf The Musical launching this holiday season, following the limited holiday Broadway engagement at The Marquis Theatre last year. Learn more!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 29, 2025
The full cast has been revealed for the brand-new tour of Elf The Musical launching this holiday season, following the limited holiday Broadway engagement at The Marquis Theatre last year. Learn more!
Video: Michael Park Sings 'Rebellious Children' in MYTHIC at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park
by Michael Major - Sep 26, 2025
Watch a video of Michael Park singing 'Rebellious Children' as 'Zeus' in Mythic at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. MYTHIC, a new pop-rock musical comedy with Broadway ambitions premiered in the U.S. on Sept. 25.
by Michael Major - Sep 26, 2025
Watch a video of Michael Park singing 'Rebellious Children' as 'Zeus' in Mythic at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. MYTHIC, a new pop-rock musical comedy with Broadway ambitions premiered in the U.S. on Sept. 25.
Previews: LA NUOVA STAGIONE 2025/2026 DEL TEATRO BRANCACCIO
by Ettore Farrattini - Sep 24, 2025
LA NUOVA STAGIONE DEL TEATRO BRANCACCIO UN CARTELLONE RICCO DI NOVITA' E DI GRADITI RITORNI
by Ettore Farrattini - Sep 24, 2025
LA NUOVA STAGIONE DEL TEATRO BRANCACCIO UN CARTELLONE RICCO DI NOVITA' E DI GRADITI RITORNI
Tickets to ELF The Musical at the Fox Theatre to go on Sale in September
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 16, 2025
Elf the Musical will arive at the Fox Theatre in December. Learn more about the upcoming performances of the national tour of Elf and see how to purchase ticikets!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 16, 2025
Elf the Musical will arive at the Fox Theatre in December. Learn more about the upcoming performances of the national tour of Elf and see how to purchase ticikets!
CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Makes Southeast Asia Debut
by Oliver Oliveros - Sep 14, 2025
Based on Roald Dahl's beloved classic, this spectacular stage production invites audiences on a wondrous journey with the eccentric Willy Wonka and five golden ticket winners.
by Oliver Oliveros - Sep 14, 2025
Based on Roald Dahl's beloved classic, this spectacular stage production invites audiences on a wondrous journey with the eccentric Willy Wonka and five golden ticket winners.
DEATH BECOMES HER Will Host An Album Signing Event at the Museum of Broadway
by Stephi Wild - Sep 12, 2025
To celebrate the Original Broadway Cast Recording of DEATH BECOMES HER, a special cast album signing event at the Museum of Broadway will take place. Learn more about the event here.
by Stephi Wild - Sep 12, 2025
To celebrate the Original Broadway Cast Recording of DEATH BECOMES HER, a special cast album signing event at the Museum of Broadway will take place. Learn more about the event here.
Tickets For ELF THE MUSICAL at Playhouse Square On Sale Wednesday
by Stephi Wild - Sep 10, 2025
Following the great success of the limited holiday Broadway engagement last year, a brand-new tour of Elf The Musical, will sprinkle jolly joy to E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall at The University of Akron.
by Stephi Wild - Sep 10, 2025
Following the great success of the limited holiday Broadway engagement last year, a brand-new tour of Elf The Musical, will sprinkle jolly joy to E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall at The University of Akron.
Rob McClure, Ana Villafañe, Jordan Donica and More to Star in DAMN YANKEES at Arena Stage
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jul 29, 2025
Arena Stage has revealed the cast for their revival of Damn Yankees, starring Rob McClure, Ana Villafañe and more. See who else is starring and learn how to purchase tickets!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jul 29, 2025
Arena Stage has revealed the cast for their revival of Damn Yankees, starring Rob McClure, Ana Villafañe and more. See who else is starring and learn how to purchase tickets!
ELF THE MUSICAL Sets Dates For New Tour This Holiday Season
by Stephi Wild - Jul 29, 2025
A brand-new tour of Elf The Musical will launch on November 1. Managed by Crossroads Live North America, the tour will come to 10 cities this holiday season. Learn more here!
by Stephi Wild - Jul 29, 2025
A brand-new tour of Elf The Musical will launch on November 1. Managed by Crossroads Live North America, the tour will come to 10 cities this holiday season. Learn more here!
Savy Jackson, Michael Park, Mamie Parris, and More Will Lead MYTHIC at Cincinnati Playhouse
by Stephi Wild - Jul 23, 2025
Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park announced the full cast and creative team for the US premiere of MYTHIC, a new pop-rock musical comedy with Broadway ambitions.
by Stephi Wild - Jul 23, 2025
Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park announced the full cast and creative team for the US premiere of MYTHIC, a new pop-rock musical comedy with Broadway ambitions.
Video: Watch BOOP! THE MUSICAL Take Its Final Bow on Broadway
by Michael Major - Jul 14, 2025
Watch a video of Boop! the Musical's final bow on Broadway, including the final reprise of 'Why Look Around the Corner,' which is followed by a speech from director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell.
by Michael Major - Jul 14, 2025
Watch a video of Boop! the Musical's final bow on Broadway, including the final reprise of 'Why Look Around the Corner,' which is followed by a speech from director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell.
Video: Watch 'My New York' From BOOP! THE MUSICAL
by Michael Major - Jul 3, 2025
BOOP! the Musical has shared a new video of 'My New York,' featuring Jasmine Amy Rogers, Ainsley Melham, and more! The musical number takes place in the musical's first act, when Betty Boop explores New York City for the first time.
by Michael Major - Jul 3, 2025
BOOP! the Musical has shared a new video of 'My New York,' featuring Jasmine Amy Rogers, Ainsley Melham, and more! The musical number takes place in the musical's first act, when Betty Boop explores New York City for the first time.
Video: Watch an Early Test For BOOP!'s Color-Changing Act Two Opening
by Michael Major - Jul 3, 2025
Jerry Mitchell has released footage of an early test for Boop! the Musical's color-changing Act Two opening number. Watch a new video of the test run and see a comparison to the final product!
by Michael Major - Jul 3, 2025
Jerry Mitchell has released footage of an early test for Boop! the Musical's color-changing Act Two opening number. Watch a new video of the test run and see a comparison to the final product!
Mel Brooks' YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN The Musical Will Transfer to Liverpool Playhouse For Christmas Season
by Stephi Wild - Jun 26, 2025
Hope Mill Theatre has announced that their production of Mel Brooks' YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL will transfer to Liverpool Playhouse for a limited 5-week run over the Christmas season.
by Stephi Wild - Jun 26, 2025
Hope Mill Theatre has announced that their production of Mel Brooks' YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL will transfer to Liverpool Playhouse for a limited 5-week run over the Christmas season.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many shows has Doug Besterman written?
Doug Besterman has written 1 shows including The Big One-Oh! (Music).
What awards has Doug Besterman been nominated for?
Outstanding Orchestrations (Drama Desk Awards) for BOOP! The Musical, Outstanding Orchestrations (Broadway or Off-Broadway) (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Death Becomes Her, Outstanding Orchestrations (Drama Desk Awards) for Anastasia, Outstanding Orchestrations (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Anastasia, Best Orchestrations (Tony Awards) for Bullets Over Broadway: The Musical, Best Orchestrations (Tony Awards) for How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Outstanding Orchestrations (Drama Desk Awards) for Young Frankenstein, Best Orchestrations (Tony Awards) for Thoroughly Modern Millie, Outstanding Orchestrations (Drama Desk Awards) for The Producers, Best Orchestrations (Tony Awards) for The Producers, Outstanding Orchestrations (Drama Desk Awards) for The Music Man and Best Orchestrations (Tony Awards) for The Music Man.
What awards has Doug Besterman won?
Doug Besterman has won several prestigious awards for his work in musical theater. He received the Tony Award for Best Orchestrations for Thoroughly Modern Millie and again for The Producers. Additionally, he earned the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Orchestrations for The Producers and The Music Man. These accolades highlight his exceptional talent and contributions to Broadway productions.
Videos