The next in our Lionel Bart Memorial Masterclass series, we are very pleased to announce an event with composer and lyricist Darren Clark, whose credits include The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. This masterclass will have a particular focus on the process of writing for actor-musicians.

Several MMD members will present songs of their own, on which Darren will provide feedback, then Darren will answer questions about his career and writing process.

Darren Clark is a multi-Olivier Award-winning composer and lyricist. His acclaimed works include The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, now playing in London’s West End, and The Wicker Husband, which won the MTI Stiles & Drewe Mentorship Award and featured at New York’s NAMT festival. He has also written music and lyrics for hit family shows like The Scarecrows’ Wedding and The Jolly Christmas Postman, as well as politically-charged pieces such as The Day of the Living and These Trees Are Made of Blood. A passionate supporter of new British musicals, Darren is the founder of New UK Musicals, a website that allows new UK based writers to sell their sheet music and backing tracks to students, performers and fans. As a producer, he created ORDINARY PEOPLE, a community-driven musical project.

This masterclass is free for MMD members, £10 for MTN members and £20 for non-members. Advance booking is required. When booking, MMD members may express their interest in presenting a song and, due to the focus of the event, pieces from shows written for actor-musicians will be prioritised.