Arts & Entertainment Compass

Hi, Dale! It is so lovely to talk with you about Dream On, Baransky! – coming back to ATA for yet another

Rendition! What would you say you have learned from your previous runs of this show?

Streamlining the runtime and reworking the dialogue can sharpen the clarity of each character’s role, making their purpose more defined and impactful. Supporting the actors in this process often leads to unexpected, delightful improv moments that enhance each production. Fresh talent breathes new life into the show, infusing unique energy and creativity into each run. Working with three different Music Directors has yielded a variety of perspectives and interpretations, each bringing a new flavor to the music and enriching the overall show.

What do you enjoy about working with ATA?

ATA is dedicated to nurturing emerging artists. The skills and commitment of the talented people, led by the creative direction and insight of Jim Jennings, is truly inspiring. I am fortunate to work with the many professionals who are associated with ATA. The unique layout of the John Cullum Theater stage, encourages the cast and crew to utilize the space in creative ways, enhancing blocking and movement throughout the Performances.

We’ve heard that this is a “quasi” musical – can you tell us more about the role music plays in the Show?

The number of songs in a traditional theater musical typically exceeds that of Dream On, Baransky, which is why the term ‘quasi-musical’ is used to describe the show. This production functions as a play within a play, where the lead character’s scenes shift between fantasy and reality. The songs are strategically placed throughout scenes, to distinguish when the characters are in a dream state versus living in the real world.”

You’ve also written for “Has Anyone Seen My Life?” a musical about individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic – tell us about this show and how your creative process compares between these two Shows.

While working in the Sonark Media recording studio, I had the opportunity to collaborate with talented individuals, including Alex Baker, Music Director, to create a cast album for the original music of “Has Anyone Seen My Life?”. The music plays a pivotal role in this show, with dialogue interspersed between verses in some of the songs. Our next step is to refine the script for presentation to New York theaters. In contrast, for “Dream On, Baransky”, the music is subtly and intermittently woven into scenes when our lead character Jonathan Baransky is in a dream state, as opposed to the central role the songs play throughout “Has Anyone Seen My Life?.” In both shows, the song lyrics, tempo, arrangements and orchestration convey important details that support the respective storyline(s).

Tell us about Dale! What are your inspirations as a writer? How did you come to this career path?

Songwriting is my way of sharing with an audience, interactions I observe, dynamics of my relationships and lessons I’ve learned. Sometimes the lyrics represent my perspective, while in other cases, my lyrics are peppered with fantasy, hopes, and wishes. I typically begin writing lyrics, and then create melodies to support the intent of each song. I started writing music many years ago as a way of expressing my feelings and sharing tunes that play inside my head.

What’s next for you? 

I co-wrote the original script for “Dream On, Baransky” with Rich Baron. For the current Run 3, my co-writer has taken the reins with the script, and I’m excited to see his version, as well as the extraordinary talent of our new Cast, Director, Music Director, Stage Manager, and Crew. For Run 4, I will create a revised version of the show with a focus on the music, to support the storyline and arc of the characters. I am currently looking for a collaborator to rework the original script for “Has Anyone Seen My Life?” which will incorporate lessons learned during the height of the pandemic, and in recent years. Lastly, I am writing music for a new show that explores how we define and express beauty, examining both societal and personal views, with an emphasis on the beauty that comes from within, as opposed to a focus on external appearances.

Thank you so much for your time – I can not wait to see Dream On, Baranski! Congratulations again on your third run! 

Thank you!