What We Do

Mercury Musical Developments is the UK’s only membership organisation dedicated to developing new musical theatre writing.

Our members have access to a range of showcasing and development initiatives to help develop their craft, further their careers as bookwriters, lyricists and composers and build a community of musical theatre writers. We offer workshops, masterclasses, seminars and writer groups designed to support those who are new to the genre, emerging talents or seasoned professionals. We actively seek out commissions, build professional networks and advocate on behalf of all our members. At MMD our aim is to support and represent the writers who are shaping the future of British musical theatre.

For our members, MMD is the first port of call for any queries or advice about writing and working in musical theatre. If we cannot help you with your query we’ll put you in touch with someone who can. Please bear in mind that MMD is not a Producing organisation or Writers Union and as such can’t offer legal council. However, if you go to the Useful Links page in our backstage members area you’ll find contact details and more relevant information. We’ll always work our hardest to help you get the best advice.

MMD is an ever growing community of over 400 writers across the UK and internationally. We hold regular networking events for our members, and our newly launched Buddy Scheme and Spotlight initiatives are designed so that our community can support one another and share the joys – and occasional frustrations – of writing musical theatre.

‘Joining MMD is a great way to meet other people doing exactly what you are doing: writing musicals, rewriting musicals, wondering why you are writing musicals, wondering if you are writing musicals and not  – in fact – operas, or plays with songs! You meet people who are thinking and doing what you’re doing and thinking about… writing, writing, writing.’
Sue Pearse, Composer, Lyricist and Librettist

To learn more about how membership can benefit you, check out our Members Benefits page or speak to our Membership & Communications Manager, Ellen Burgin at ellen@mercurymusicals.com on 020 3951 7961. We look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant and diverse community of talented writers.