MUSICALS
57 BUS: A New Musical Inspired by a True Event
Music, Lyrics & Book
HISTORY
Since starting the musical in 2018, 57 Bus has had nine table readings in Los Angeles, developmental readings in Chicago (2020), New York City (2020) and Colorado (2021). Ryan was also accepted as Artist-in-Residence at Chateau d’Orquevaux in France for the summer 2021 and was awarded the Denis Diderot Grant for his work on 57 Bus.
Most recently 57 BUS was selected to participate in the Latine Musical Theatre Lab’s Table Reading Series 2023, graciously supported by The Miranda Family Fund, and hosted by Amas Musical Theatre. As part of this program, the musical worked closely with dramaturg Amauta M. Firmino (dramaturg for the multi-Tony nominated production SLAVE PLAY).
For updates and content from this new musical please visit: www.57busmusical.com.
SYNOPSIS:
Inspired by a real incident in Oakland, California, in 2013, “57 Bus” delves into the aftermath of a hate crime where an 18-year-old non-binary high school student’s skirt was set on fire. The musical intricately explores how this traumatic event forever alters the lives of the victim, Skylar, and the perpetrator, John Michael. Confronted with the harsh reality of intolerance, Skylar grapples with the profound question of whether the pursuit of self-expression is worth the challenges in an unforgiving world. John Michael faces a crucial decision—to embrace the repercussions of his actions and navigate a path that transcends societal expectations, emerging from his circumstances stronger and wiser than ever before.
As Skylar navigates the complexities of their quest for self-expression, a journey of self-discovery unfolds. The musical becomes a poignant exploration of identity, resilience, and healing. “57 Bus” offers an unfiltered perspective on the impact of intolerance on young lives, highlighting the transformative power of understanding and empathy. Ultimately, it aims to contribute to breaking the cycle of hate, fostering a narrative of peace and unity.
Two Acts; Cast 8-30: 3 F, 4 M, 1 Non-binary
PLAYS
DANCE PLAGUE
In the futuristic realm of 2120, the dance plague of 1518 resurfaces on a global scale, intertwining past, present, and future. A determined group of young female dancers initiates clandestine conversations to navigate the challenges of fear, anxiety, isolation, and an irresistible primal compulsion to move. “Dance Plague” probes the consequences of history literally repeating itself, compelling us to confront the inevitability of chaos and our duty to intervene in a quest to break the cycle.
One Act; Cast Size 12 F
WORLD PREMIERE: Contra Costa School of Performing Arts in Walnut Creek, CA (2023)
LA LAVADORA
SYNOPSIS:
When the la lavadora (the washing machine) breaks down, Rafael Sr. and Esperanza Mendez, a Mexican couple living on the same property but under different roofs, are forced to collaborate. Their adult son, Rafael Jr., steps in as the mediator. In this reflective play, the Mendez family’s odyssey from Juarez, Mexico, to El Paso, Texas, and finally to Los Angeles, California, unfolds—a journey marked by the erosion of a marriage fueled by pride, tradition, and an unwavering commitment to family.
Simultaneously, in the present, a mound of dirty laundry accumulates as the supply of clean clothes dwindles. The central question emerges: Can they find common ground to repair not only the washing machine but also the fragments of their marriage?
Two Acts; Cast Size 7: 3F, 4M
QUARTERFINALIST: Screencraft Stage Play Competition (2023)
FINALIST: Santa Monica Theatre Guild, New Works Festival (2023)
WINNER: Full Circle Players’ New Works Play Festival.
LOVE IS DEAD
SYNOPSIS:
Exploring profound desires, longtime friends Stacy and Will reunite in North Carolina during the spring. Having both experienced heartbreak in the past, they enter into a pact devoid of love—an arrangement fueled by detached lust and fantasy. However, the simplicity of their agreement takes a complex turn when Daisy, a local girl, becomes entangled in their dynamics.
Woven with elements of ancient myths, metaphysics, and prehistoric rituals, “Love is Dead” transforms into a contemporary ritual of sacrifice and feast. In this metaphorical banquet, the players find themselves served on a plate, with an audience eagerly poised to partake in the unfolding drama.
Two Acts; Cast Size 4: 2F, 2M
PASSING TIME : A QUARANTINE PLAY
SYNOPSIS:
As the mandated quarantine stretches on for days, weeks, and months, Ethan grapples with the challenge of filling his time. Isolated and yearning for genuine connections, he seeks the motivation to exercise, the inspiration to complete his screenplay, and the resilience to maintain hope. Unexpectedly, amidst the monotony, Ethan discovers the courage to confront his insecurities and even stumbles upon the prospect of falling in love.
One Act; Cast Size 4-20; 2-20 F, 1 M, 1 Any