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What is Book Club?
Each month, MMD members come together online to discuss the libretto of a celebrated musical – no songs, no staging, just the words on the page.
We dive deep into storytelling craft: structure, character, dialogue, tone, and how the book supports or challenges the score. It’s a writer-to-writer conversation designed to help you understand what makes a musical tick – and sharpen your own writing.
How It Works
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Regular Sessions: Every six weeks, with the date being voted on by attendees of the last Book Club.
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Time: 7:30pm – 9:00pm (Online via Zoom)
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Who: Open to all MMD members.
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Cost: Free for members.
A quick note: You don’t have to commit to attending every session. Join whenever you can!
What You’ll Get
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A password-protected free libretto to read ahead of each session with thanks to Musical Theatre International (MTI).
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A chance to vote on upcoming titles from a curated shortlist.
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A lively, focused discussion with fellow musical theatre bookwriters.
How to Join
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Register for the upcoming session on our event page.
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Receive an email with the password to access the libretto on the Members’ Resource Hub.
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Read the libretto before the session.
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Join the online discussion.
Guidelines for Participation
To keep the Book Club a positive and productive space, we ask that members:
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Read the libretto before the session.
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Follow the MMD Code of Conduct.
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Keep the libretto and access link private – for members only.
FAQs
Do I have to have experience writing musicals to join?
The Book Club welcomes writers at all levels interested in learning more about musical theatre storytelling.
Can I invite friends who aren’t MMD members?
The Book Club is exclusive to MMD members, but joining MMD is simple and open to all interested writers.
How are future titles chosen?
Members vote each month from a shortlist curated by MMD staff.
Are the sessions recorded?
To encourage open, honest discussion and maintain a safe space for sharing, sessions are not recorded. We want everyone to feel comfortable contributing in real time.
Do I have to attend every Book Club session?
Absolutely not! You’re welcome to join as many or as few sessions as you like – there’s no obligation to attend every meeting.
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