Podcasts > NPR's Book of the Day > 'Theater Kid' is a memoir from the producer of 'Rent,' 'Avenue Q,' and 'Hamilton'

'Theater Kid' is a memoir from the producer of 'Rent,' 'Avenue Q,' and 'Hamilton'

By NPR (podcasts@npr.org)

In this episode of NPR's Book of the Day, Broadway producer Jeffrey Seller discusses his memoir and path from a Detroit suburb to becoming a major figure in musical theater. Growing up as a poor, adopted, gay, and Jewish child, Seller found solace and confidence in community theater, which shaped his future career producing musicals like "Rent," "In the Heights," and "Hamilton."

The conversation explores how Seller chooses projects based on their unique, unprecedented sounds, such as the blend of hip-hop and musical theater in "Hamilton." He also discusses theater's role as a sanctuary for marginalized individuals, describing how productions like "Rent" have created spaces where outsiders can find acceptance and build connections with others who share similar experiences.

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'Theater Kid' is a memoir from the producer of 'Rent,' 'Avenue Q,' and 'Hamilton'

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'Theater Kid' is a memoir from the producer of 'Rent,' 'Avenue Q,' and 'Hamilton'

1-Page Summary

Seller's Background and Upbringing in a Lower-Income Family

Jeffrey Seller grew up in a Detroit suburb, where he felt like an outsider due to his identity as poor, adopted, gay, and Jewish. His father, who served warrants for a living, also worked as a Shriner clown, bringing joy to hospitalized children despite the financial strain it placed on the family. For Seller, community theater became a sanctuary where he found confidence and empowerment that eluded him in his regular life.

Seller's Process Of Creating Hit Musicals Like "Rent," "in the Heights," and "Hamilton"

Seller's journey to becoming a renowned Broadway producer began when he discovered Jonathan Larson's rock monologue, which resonated deeply with his own life story and led to the production of "Rent." Later, he was captivated by Lin-Manuel Miranda's innovative rap performance from "In the Heights," which initiated their collaboration and eventually led to "Hamilton."

Seller explains that his musical selection process is driven by a search for surprising, unique sounds previously unheard on Broadway. He was particularly drawn to "Hamilton" for its groundbreaking marriage of hip-hop with musical theatre, as well as its fascinating exploration of Alexander Hamilton's role in creating American bureaucracy.

Theater's Role In Fostering Belonging and Hope

Seller emphasizes theater's powerful ability to create safe havens and chosen families for marginalized individuals, citing "Rent's" significant impact on LGBTQ+ youth. Through productions like "Rent," "In the Heights," and "Hamilton," Seller sees theater as a transformative medium that empowers diverse communities by reflecting their lives and fostering a sense of belonging. He notes that theater's immersive storytelling creates a space where outsiders can find community and acceptance.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Jeffrey Seller's upbringing in a Detroit suburb as an outsider was shaped by his experiences of feeling different due to being poor, adopted, gay, and Jewish. These aspects of his identity made him feel disconnected from the mainstream community around him. Seller found solace and empowerment in community theater, where he could express himself freely and find a sense of belonging that he struggled to find in his everyday life.
  • Seller's father working as a Shriner clown meant he volunteered to entertain children in hospitals as part of the Shriners fraternity's charitable activities. This voluntary role, while noble, did not provide financial compensation, adding strain to the family's finances. The commitment to bringing joy to hospitalized children through clowning required time and effort without direct monetary benefits. Seller's father's dual roles of serving warrants for a living and volunteering as a Shriner clown showcased his dedication to both his job and community service.
  • Jeffrey Seller's selection process for musicals is guided by a quest for fresh and distinctive sounds that have not been traditionally heard on Broadway. He seeks out works that offer innovative and unexpected musical elements, aiming to bring new and unique experiences to audiences. This approach led him to productions like "Hamilton," which stood out for its groundbreaking fusion of hip-hop and traditional musical theatre styles. Seller's focus on unconventional and surprising musical qualities sets his productions apart and contributes to their success.
  • The musical "Hamilton" revolutionized Broadway by blending traditional musical theatre elements with hip-hop music and rap lyrics. Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creator, infused the show with hip-hop to modernize the historical narrative and make it more relatable to contemporary audiences. This fusion allowed for a dynamic and fresh approach to storytelling, capturing the essence of Alexander Hamilton's life and the founding of America in a way that resonated with a broader, younger demographic. The incorporation of hip-hop rhythms and rhymes added energy, authenticity, and a sense of urgency to the musical, setting it apart from traditional Broadway productions.
  • Theater often serves as a place where individuals who may feel marginalized or different in society can come together and form connections with like-minded people. These connections can create a sense of belonging and support, akin to a chosen family, where individuals feel understood and accepted for who they are. Through shared experiences and storytelling on stage, theater can provide a space for individuals to find solace, understanding, and a sense of community. This sense of belonging can be particularly meaningful for those who may not feel fully accepted or understood in other aspects of their lives.
  • "Rent," a groundbreaking musical by Jonathan Larson, resonated deeply with LGBTQ+ youth due to its themes of love, acceptance, and resilience in the face of adversity. The show's portrayal of diverse characters, including LGBTQ+ individuals, and its exploration of issues like HIV/AIDS and identity, struck a chord with audiences seeking representation and understanding. Through its powerful storytelling and anthemic music, "Rent" provided a sense of validation and empowerment to many LGBTQ+ individuals, fostering a connection and sense of belonging within the community. The musical's celebration of love, friendship, and living authentically despite challenges inspired and uplifted LGBTQ+ youth, offering a voice to their experiences and struggles.

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'Theater Kid' is a memoir from the producer of 'Rent,' 'Avenue Q,' and 'Hamilton'

Seller's Background and Upbringing in a Lower-Income Family

Jeffrey Seller's early life in a Detroit suburb was characterized by feelings of being an outsider due to his multi-faceted identity as poor, adopted, gay, and Jewish.

Seller Grew Up In a Detroit Suburb Feeling Like an Outsider Due to His Lower-Income, Adopted, Gay, and Jewish Identities

Jeffrey Seller's childhood was marked by economic struggle and a sense of exclusion. His father's job serving warrants exposed him to the harsh realities of those unable to meet their financial obligations or undergoing personal crises such as divorce or eviction.

Seller's Father Served Warrants, Briefly Worked As a Clown With the Shriners, Showing His Loving, Philanthropic Nature but Impoverishing the Family

Despite financial hardships, Seller's father joined the Shriners and worked as a clown, which reflected his loving, wonderful, and philanthropic spirit. Seller recalls his father making balloons for children in hospitals and the joy it brought. However, this act of kindness had the unintended consequence of further ...

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Seller's Background and Upbringing in a Lower-Income Family

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Actionables

  • Explore your multifaceted identity by creating a personal vision board that includes images, quotes, and symbols representing your unique backgrounds and experiences. This can help you visualize and embrace the different aspects of who you are, similar to how Jeffrey Seller recognized his diverse identities. For example, if you're an immigrant and a tech enthusiast, you might include pictures of your home country and the latest tech gadgets.
  • Volunteer at a local community theater to connect with others and find empowerment through shared creative expression. Community theater can be a welcoming space for people from all walks of life, and by participating, you can experience a sense of belonging and contribute to a project that brings joy to others. You don't need acting experience; helping with set design, costumes, or promotion can be equally fulfilling.
  • Document and share ...

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'Theater Kid' is a memoir from the producer of 'Rent,' 'Avenue Q,' and 'Hamilton'

Seller's Process Of Creating Hit Musicals Like "Rent," "in the Heights," and "Hamilton"

Jeffrey Seller, a renowned figure in the Broadway musical scene, has revealed some of the driving forces and inspirations that led him to produce groundbreaking shows like "Rent," "In the Heights," and "Hamilton."

Seller Discovered a Resonant Rock Monologue by Jonathan Larson, "Rent" Composer, Prompting Show Production

Seller recounts an experience that deeply affected him when he came across a rock monologue by Jonathan Larson. Even though he had never met Larson, Seller felt the piece echoed his life story. Struck by the theme of love for musicals within the monologue, which gave him chills, Seller was compelled to write to Larson to express his interest in producing his work. This encounter set him on the path to produce what would become one of the most iconic musicals of the 90s, "Rent."

Drawn to Lin-Manuel Miranda's Innovative Sounds and Storytelling, Seller Collaborated on "Hamilton" After "In the Heights."

Continuing with his knack for identifying unique talent, Seller recalls being surprised and moved by Lin-Manuel Miranda's performance of a rap from "In the Heights." It was this introduction to Miranda's innovative sounds and storytelling that convinced him of the artist's unique talent. Seller describes the experience as compelling and groundbreaking, which ultimately led to their collaboration on the worldwide phenomenon "Hamilton" after the success of "In the Heights."

Seller's Musical Selection Is Driven by a Desire for Surprising, Unique Sounds New to Broadway

In his search for what to bring to Broadway next, Seller is always on the hunt for something surprising and unique, seeking out sounds never before heard on Broadway stages. When he first enco ...

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Seller's Process Of Creating Hit Musicals Like "Rent," "in the Heights," and "Hamilton"

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Jonathan Larson's rock monologue is a piece of spoken word performance that incorporates elements of rock music in its delivery. Larson, known for his innovative blend of pop, rock, and traditional musical theatre styles, often used his work to explore socially conscious themes drawn from his own life experiences and observations. This rock monologue by Larson may have been a powerful and emotionally resonant piece that inspired Jeffrey Seller to pursue the production of "Rent."
  • Lin-Manuel Miranda's performance of a rap from "In the Heights" showcased his unique talent for blending rap with traditional musical theater elements, setting him apart as an innovative artist. This performance was a key moment that caught the attention of Jeffrey Seller, leading to their collaboration on the musical "Hamilton." Miranda's fusion of rap and storytelling in "In the Heights" demonstrated his ability to push boundaries and create fresh, engaging narratives through music. Seller's recognition of Miranda's exceptional skills during this performance paved the way for their successful partnership on "Hamilton."
  • Alexander Hamilton is often referred to as the "first bureaucrat" due to his significant role in establishing the foundations of the American bureaucratic system. As the first Secretary of the Treasury under ...

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'Theater Kid' is a memoir from the producer of 'Rent,' 'Avenue Q,' and 'Hamilton'

Theater's Role In Fostering Belonging and Hope

Seller emphasizes the significant role theater plays in creating a sense of belonging and hope, especially for those who feel marginalized.

Theater as a "Safe Haven" and "Chosen Family" for Marginalized Individuals, Exemplified by "Rent's" Impact on LGBTQ+ Youth

Seller looks at the impact of "Rent" on LGBTQ+ youth, sharing that the musical provided a crucial safe haven and an opportunity for them to embrace the concept of a chosen family. This comes at a time when many may feel disconnected from their surroundings or biological families, showing the power of theater in fostering community and inclusion.

"Rent," "In the Heights," and "Hamilton": Theater's Role In Empowering Diverse Communities

Believing in the power of his productions to uplift and empower, Seller sees shows like "Rent," "In the Heights," and "Hamilton" as pivotal in their impact on diverse communities. These musicals, through their narratives and representation, empower audiences by reflecting their lives and fostering a sense of pride in their identities.

Seller Sees Theater's Value In Unlocking Hope, Belonging, and "I Can Fit In."

Seller perceives theater as a medium that can inspire hope and a profound sense of belonging. He posits that theater has an innate ability to r ...

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Theater's Role In Fostering Belonging and Hope

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While theater can foster a sense of belonging, it can also be exclusive, with high ticket prices and cultural barriers limiting access for some marginalized groups.
  • The impact of theater on fostering hope and community may not be as significant for individuals who do not resonate with the stories being told or who feel that their narratives are still underrepresented on stage.
  • The idea that theater serves as a "safe haven" might not hold true for all individuals, as experiences of theater environments can vary widely and may not always be welcoming.
  • The empowerment derived from musicals like "Rent," "In the Heights," and "Hamilton" might not translate into tangible changes in the lives of audience members or in the communities they represent.
  • The notion t ...

Actionables

  • You can create a personal playlist of songs from inclusive musicals to reinforce a sense of community in your daily life. By curating a selection of songs from shows like "In the Heights" and "Hamilton," you immerse yourself in narratives that celebrate diversity and belonging. Play this playlist during your commute or while at home to remind yourself of the inclusive messages these musicals convey.
  • Start a virtual book club focused on plays and musical scripts that highlight diverse stories and characters. This encourages discussions about inclusion and belonging, similar to the experience of watching a theater production. Choose a different play each month, read it individually, and then meet online to discuss the themes and how they relate to your own experiences of community and identity.
  • Volunteer as a story collector for a local theater group, gathering ...

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