Just Because (musical)

Just Because is a planned musical with music and lyrics by Jordan Beck, and a book by David Simpatico. The musical centers around a high school debate team navigating complex social and political issues while grappling with personal relationships and self-discovery.

Plot Synopsis:

The musical follows the story of four high school students - Harper, Alex, Jamie, and Chloe - who form an unlikely bond as members of their school's debate team. Harper, the driven and ambitious leader, struggles to reconcile her desire for success with her genuine concern for social justice. Alex, the quiet and introspective member, finds solace in the power of words to express his hidden feelings. Jamie, the charismatic and popular student, grapples with the pressure to conform to expectations while secretly yearning for deeper connections. Chloe, the fiercely independent and outspoken member, challenges the status quo and advocates for marginalized voices. As the debate season progresses, they confront issues such as gun control, climate change, and LGBTQ+ rights, forcing them to examine their own beliefs and biases. Through the process, they learn to appreciate each other's perspectives and discover the power of collaboration and compromise. Interwoven with the debate storyline are personal dramas, including romantic entanglements, family conflicts, and the challenges of adolescence.

Development History:

Just Because has undergone several workshops and readings. The initial workshop was held at [Insert Location/Date if known]. It was selected for [Insert Award/Recognition if known]. Future productions and licensing information is currently unavailable.

Musical Style:

The musical score is described as contemporary pop with influences from musical theatre. The songs aim to reflect the emotional complexities of the characters and the urgent themes of the story.

Characters:

• Harper: A highly motivated and intelligent student, captain of the debate team.
• Alex: A thoughtful and introspective student with a talent for writing.
• Jamie: A popular and charming student who struggles with internal conflicts.
• Chloe: A passionate and outspoken advocate for social justice.

Themes:

The musical explores themes such as:

• The power of words and debate.
• Social justice and activism.
• The challenges of adolescence.
• Finding your voice.
• The importance of empathy and understanding.
• The complexities of relationships.