Boy: A New Musical
Three years ago, I, Jonathan Sangster, decided it was time to put to paper a story that had swirled around my head for years. I knew it wasn't going to write itsself and I know in my heart it's an important story to tell. I knew it must be a musical. "Who could write this with me? Who could I ask to be my composer/lyricist that would understand the importance of the story and help propel the themes beyond my own mind?" Well, there was only one person I thought of; Matthew Hornbeck.
Matt and I met in college. Matt has received an MA in Applied Sociology and an MFA in Arts Leadership. For both programs, Matt central focus was the research and implementation of art as a medium for progressive social change. Matt’s writing credits include the book and score for “Pick Up Artist, The Musical” and the book for “Bean, The Musical ... Fruit?”. Currently Matt is serving as the artistic director of the interdisciplinary Seattle-based arts community called ‘quiet’ and teaches Sociology and Global Studies at Cascadia College. Matt is in the 2nd year of Saybrook University’s PhD in Transformative Social Change program where he plans on continuing his research into the ways in which art acts as a tool of social change. You see, Matt has a knack for creating theatre for social change, and stories that matter and leave the audience with conversation and discussion. That's what this story needs. I was ecstatic when he instantly agreed to sign up for this adventure, and so, we began. 
After many phone conversations, some skype sessions, working diligently on our own (living in two seperate states) as well as a week writing intesnive, here we are, almost three years later from our first conversation, with our first, completed, first draft of Boy: A New Musical.
Boy: A New Musical. The Peter Pan we all know and love must come to terms with the real reason why he stayed so long in Neverland and what was the real reason he had so much animosity towards the Pirate Captain?
When a young boy named Peter witnesses his father commit suicide, he, his mother, and sister move to a new town for a fresh start. They are welcomed with open arms by the community, particularly the town Pastor, James, and his family. James takes special notice of Peter, eager to help him through his grief by attempting to strengthen his relationship with God. When the relationship between James and Peter crosses a boundary as James struggles with his own demons, Peter creates a fantastical world within his mind in order to escape and ignore the abuse and sexual assault he encounters. The loss of innocence would make any lost boy want to fly away from their troubles, by any means necessary.
I know there are people out there who might think, "Why Peter Pan? It's a story that's been told and retold so many times!" My answer to you is: Not like this. That is what makes this reimagining so special. It truly deconstructs the story we know so well, and gives reason to characters, relationships, and details in ways that have never been told. It takes a beloved story, and tells another that so many will be able to identify with, and hopefully, heal a wounded heart.
Almost two years ago I was cast in a beautiful production of Spring Awakening, directed by J Scott Lapp (Associate/Assistant Directing credits include Broadway: Bonnie & Clyde; National Tour: Murder for Two, Xanadu (La Jolla Playhouse, National Tour); Off-Broadway: Murder For Two (New World Stages, Second Stage); Regional: Rain (Old Globe), Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Paper Mill Playhouse, La Jolla Playhouse), Into the Woods (Old Globe) and many more). I was truly changed by this production and the masterful direction he provided. While being housed at his family home, I noticed a painting of Peter Pan on the wall and found out it was he who painted it. J and his sister Chelsea, (Associate Choreographer of Spring Awakening), both love Peter Pan. If that wasn't a "God wink" than I don't know what is! I casually mentioned to J that I was writing a musical, a reimagining of Peter Pan, and he was very quick to set up a lunch meeting to discuss more. A lunch meeting turned into a declaration of helping the success of this piece by any means necessary. The stars were aligning. 
Well, here we are, almost 2 years, 1 table read, and a completed musical, later, taking the next steps in bringing Boy: A New Musical to life. In order to create the best, most effective version of this story, it's important to take the proper steps in doing so. (Especially with Broadway in sight. Gotta dream big!) We have planned a reading of the entire book and music for Seattle for October 16 and then a staged reading of entire show in San Diego for December 18. It's all happening!
We all know that producing art, in any form, isn't cheap, by any means! Which is why we are here and where you come in. You have the opportunity to help bring to life and help in supporting a beautiful story that I hope will one day bring peace to so many. Between the two, reading and staged reading, we are making a goal of raising at least $8,000. J Scott Lapp has so generously agreed to volunteer his time, efforts and expertise, to which we are eternally grateful for. However, we do want to cover travel and housing expenses for us on the production side for both endeavors. And no musical can come to life without actors, musical direction, accompanist, and a great stage manager. Each deserving some pay for the talents they provide as well. We can't forget about space rental fees. We already have solidified rehearsal and performance space in Seattle, which is very exciting. We will be rehearsing and performing the reading at the Seattle City Center, in the heart of downtown Seattle, right next to the amazing Space Needle. Regarding the staged reading in San Diego, we have a rehearsal space provided in Temecula , and we will be hoping to secure a performance location in San Diego shortly. Not to mention all the expenditures for printing needs and beyond.
It will take a village to bring this advenure to life. With your help, generosity, and the heart poured into this endeavor, we can bring this story to fruition. Any donation amount will help, and we will be forever grateful for. Since the readings are being produced through The Barn Stage Company, a non profit 501(c)3 organization, it is important to know that all donations made in support are tax deductible.
We hope that you will find it in your heart to donate and help support this incredible journey. This is just the beginning!
Thank you!