Creating a musical is as much about refining as it is about writing. After the first draft, The Sparrow enters a new phase: this is where the raw material of the story, characters, and music undergoes careful polishing to unearth the heart of the narrative.
Stephen Sondheim famously said, “Musicals aren’t written, they’re rewritten.” These words resonate deeply as we dive into the rewrites for The Sparrow, understanding that every scene, every song, every line of dialogue may need to be reshaped, adjusted, or even reimagined to reveal the essence of the story. It’s a process that demands patience and precision as we sift through each part of the draft to discover what is essential and what can be let go.
In rewriting, we aim to sharpen the emotional core, making sure that every choice serves the narrative. Sometimes, a single change in a line or a subtle shift in melody can deepen a character’s journey or bring new meaning to a scene. This phase may involve questioning motivations, testing melodies, or adjusting pacing to guide the audience through each moment with clarity and impact.
With The Sparrow, the rewrites are about capturing the beauty and tension of Verga’s Storia di una capinera while speaking to a contemporary audience. Rewriting isn’t about seeking perfection—it’s about refining the truth of the story until it feels inevitable and honest. As each scene is shaped, The Sparrow reveals more of itself, preparing to take flight as a cohesive and impactful whole.