Wakeman
Wakeman is a folk-rock Americana musical inspired by the incredible true story of Union soldier Sarah Rosetta Wakeman (alias Lyons Wakeman). With powerful lyrics, rich harmonies, and unforgettable melodies, this deeply human story and stirring journey of self-discovery will captivate theater and music lovers alike.
The Writer
Jenn Grinels (Book & Muisc & Lyrics) is an award-winning singer/songwriter, but began her career in musical theater after studying at UC Irvine. Grinels played “Yitzhak” in the West Coast Premiere of Hedwig and the Angry Inch and spent years portraying “Janis Joplin” in Beehive. After completing her first album, Grinels built a fanbase through nonstop touring, releasing numerous singles, five additional albums, and via Patreon. With Wakeman, Grinels combines her experiences with theater and songwriting. In 2024 she was a Kleban Prize Finalist, Artist in Residence at Circle in the Square Theater School, and Wakeman was a Village Theatre Festival of New Works selection.
Development History
Wakeman (fka Rosetta Project) was recently a selection in Village Theatre’s Festival of New Musicals, and was developed as part of the Circle in the Square Theatre School’s Emerging Writers Residency. Other development took place at Bridgetown Conservatory in Portland, Oregon, Tower Theatre Foundation in Bend, Oregon, and at Lewis & Clark and Reed Colleges with Dr. Jenna Tamimi.
Wakeman was developed at Village Theatre in Issaquah and Everett, WA Adam Immerwahr, Artistic Director
Wakeman was developed in part at the Circle in the Square Professional Theatre Workshop, as part of the CITSPTW Emerging Writers Residency
Developed in collaboration with the Tower Theatre Foundation, Bend, Oregon, with further development by Harmony France
Wakeman was inspired by an idea conceived with Jasper Grant
Connect
Seth Glewen, sglewen@gersh.com, 212-634-8124