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We run a programme of events for writers of musical theatre throughout the year.

Designed to help attendees develop the craft of writing musical theatre, meet other writers, increase knowledge of the art form, and enhance their understanding of the business of working in professional musical theatre.

Open Mic Nights

Held every 2-3 months, MMD’s highly popular Open Mic Nights are a chance for writers of musicals to get together and try out their work.

If you’re a member of MMD you can present a song from a show you are working on, allowing you test out new material in front of a friendly and supportive audience. Alternatively, you’re welcome to just listen, enjoy the new work presented and socialise with fellow writers.

Lionel Bart Memorial Masterclasses

Our regular masterclasses, supported by the Lionel Bart Foundation,  provide an opportunity for MMD members to present a piece of work-in-progress.

They receive individual constructive feedback from distinguished industry practitioners in front of a supportive audience of other members.

The critique session is followed by a Q&A with the practitioners about their own careers and working processes.

Previous guest practitioners have included Tom Kitt, Nikolai Foster, Lotte Wakeham, Hannah Chissick, Howard Goodall, Chris Bush, Jake Brunger and Pippa Cleary, Jenna Russell, Rachel Wagstaff, Jeremy Sams and Jen Whyte.

Recordings of many past masterclasses can be found in the Members Hub.

Panel events and talks

We regularly hold events, both in person and online, exploring subjects useful to the careers of writers.

These are led by industry professionals in each field and include the chance for attendees to ask their own questions.

Recent topics covered have included:

  • Navigating contracts and finding an agent
  • Arts Council funding and crowdfunding
  • How theatrical licensing works
  • How to pitch your show

Recordings of many past events can be found in the Members Hub

Social events and online drop-ins

A few times a year we hold events for members to meet and socialise.

Sometimes this is in person, for example a Musical Theatre Quiz Night, and sometimes this takes place online, giving members across the UK and abroad the chance to meet each other and chat to MMD staff.

Write Here, Write Now

Once a month we hold a drop-in session for members to come and write in the company of other musical theatre writers.

This encourages motivation and support between writers, and MMD staff members are on hand for any general advice. Currently these sessions take place at The Other Palace, London, and additional locations may be added soon.

Discounted theatre tickets and post-show Q&As

We regularly offer members discounted ticket offers to new musicals and from time to time we organise a members’ outing to watch the show together, followed by a Q&A with the show’s creative team.

Recent show visits have included ‘Ride’ at the Charing Cross Theatre and ‘Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)’ at the Kiln Theatre. Visits in 2024 will include ‘Cable Street’ at Southwark Playhouse, ‘In Clay’ at Upstairs at the Gatehouse, and ‘42 Balloons’ at The Lowry, Salford.

What our members say

Always love an MMD members' event! Whether it's sharing a new song with fellow writers at the open mic nights, gathering pearls of wisdom from an industry giant in one of the masterclasses, or even being nominated for one of their wonderful writing competitions - it all helps to sharpen your skills and keep you motivated! Viva MMD!

MMD member Neil Bastian

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