"An Evening in Paley Park" began from simple, quiet observations I made of people during my daily commutes to university. Each bus and train ride was a chance to think about how many countless small interactions that were passing through and unfolding around me. strangers meeting, quick exchanges, what ifs, and connections formed in fleeting moments.

Music has always been important to me, and over the past four years, I've been writing and composing my own songs. But I've always had a bigger vision: to tell an entire story through music. Everything changed two years ago when I discovered musical theatre.

Stephen Sondheim's "Company" immediately captured my imagination. I became obsessed, diving deep into every available detail about the original 1970 production. The creative evolutions, the behind-the-scenes stories, Boris Aronson's original set, just everything. I quickly became a dedicated fan, exploring and over analyzing other Sondheim works like "Follies," "Merrily We Roll Along," and "Anyone Can Whistle." Each new discovery pushed me further toward creating my own musical.

These experiences led me to the creation and inspiration of writing An Evening In Paley Park. I wanted to make a sleek, modern musical set in my favorite era, the 1970s. And especially set in New York City. Drawing from my observations, I began crafting a narrative that explores the complexity and subtle beauty of human connections.

I knew from the start I wouldn't be able to find someone else to write the script, so I decided to take on the task myself. Starting in February 2025, what began as a small idea developed into a full two-act musical by late June, complete with 11 original songs and a distinctive neurotic and acerbic ensemble of characters. The excitement of possibly seeing this story come alive on stage someday or even workshopped is genuinely thrilling.

Lastly, I want to thank someone who’s been there since the beginning, Emily Talbot. Without her production-manager-level organisation skills, genuine belief in this project, and unwavering support as a best friend, this musical wouldn't have progressed nearly as quickly or efficiently as it did.

This musical invites everyone to experience these fleeting yet meaningful interactions. I hope it resonates with you all, highlighting the connections we often overlook, yet profoundly shape our lives. 

No buffer, no context, no safety net.

This is An Evening in Paley Park.