BroadwayCon 2025

What’s it like to write with one of the greatest composers of all time? In this captivating discussion, Prof. Ed Barnes (Juilliard) and Gail Leondar-Wright (TalkingSondheim.com) interview John Weidman, librettist behind Sondheim classics like Pacific Overtures, Assassins and Road Show. Explore the challenges and triumphs of writing alongside Stephen Sondheim, and gain a deeper understanding of the creative process behind some of Broadway’s most celebrated works. Hailed as great Sondheim educators, this conversation with Ed and Gail is a must for anyone curious about the workings of that musical theatre giant's collaborative process.

Ever wondered how a Broadway story is born? Enter the world of book writing with industry icons Winnie Holzman (Wicked) and John Weidman (Assassins) as they discuss their experiences and expertise alongside Tony-winning author Robert L. Freedman (A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder), whose recent book explores this important craft. Together, they’ll delve into the process of transforming ideas into narratives that inspire, move, and entertain. What's "Second Act Trouble" and how do you avoid it? How does an aspiring book writer hone their craft? From finding the heart of a story to balancing humor and pathos, this panel offers a rare glimpse into the minds of Broadway’s creative storytellers and celebrates the unsung architects of every great musical.

He invented Elphaba, and she helped her find her voice. Explore the creation of Wicked with two of its masterminds: Gregory Maguire, author of the novel that reimagined Oz, and Winnie Holzman, who adapted his words into the beloved Broadway musical and recently released Hollywood film. This panel highlights the challenges of bringing Wicked to life across page, stage and screen; and how each version shows that wickedness isn't black or white – it's green.

Moderated by a trio of experts in theatre and culture — David Benkof, The Broadway Maven; Pulitzer prize-winning New York Times critic Salamishah Tillet; and Stacy Wolf, professor of musical theatre at Princeton — topics include the origins of the story, its lasting cultural impact, and more. In an unusual treat, fans will be welcome to ask their burning questions of both writers, such as: Is Holzman a Glinda or an Elphaba? Did Maguire prefer the stage or screen version?

From The Lion King to Life of Pi, puppetry is a crucial part of theatrical design. Come learn from the puppeteers, puppet fabricators, and puppet designers who use their talents to bring the puppets you love to life onstage, 8x a week! Our panel is hosted by Fergie Philippe (Hamilton, Camelot) and features puppeteers such as Martin P. Robinson (Little Shop of Horrors, Sesame Street), Erin Quill (Avenue Q) and Adam Jepsen (Frozen on Broadway).

Puppetry on Broadway (@PuppetryonBroadway on Instagram) is a collective of puppeteers working on, off, and around Broadway. Co-produced and founded by Julia Schemmer and Mango Moon Productions, we seek to celebrate and uplift theatrical puppetry and the puppeteers who make it possible!

Warm up those vocal cords and get ready to sing your heart out at BroadwayCon Karaoke!

Opportunity is not a lengthy visitor so be sure to sign up now!