Celebrating Black History Month
with Karamu House and the
The Impact of Shuffle Along
Join us for a FREE event: THE IMPACT OF SHUFFLE ALONG, available throughout Black History Month (Feb 1-28). This special concert and program, co-hosted with Karamu House, presents nearly 20 songs from the original 1921 musical, and also tells the story and history of this musical, one of the first of its kind to be written and performed entirely by Black Americans. Check out the trailer below and register for your free viewing at www.karamuhouse.org.
Introducing a New Face at TMTP!

Tracey Dwyer, whose career includes both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, has succeeded Heather Meeker as The Musical Theater Project’s top-management professional.
As managing director, Dwyer will supervise TMTP’s staff in marketing, development, strategic planning, operations, and budgeting and will work with Founding Director Bill Rudman and the board of trustees to advance the organization in all areas of endeavor. TMTP recently began its 21st year as both a local and national resource in exploring and celebrating the classic American musical.
A native of Melbourne, Australia, and Northeast Ohio, Dwyer holds an executive M.B.A. from Ohio University. She brings 30 years of professional experience in business, education, health care and the arts.
“We feel fortunate that Tracey has joined TMTP,” said Rudman, “especially in this very difficult time for our country—a time when the arts are particularly fragile. In addition to her formidable skill set, I have witnessed firsthand her compassion, generosity and unflinching honesty—qualities that are at the very core of what we stand for.”
Dwyer commented: “I am excited to join this team and help shape TMTP’s future during such a challenging period. It is an honor to help carry on this organization’s legacy of first-class artistic and educational achievement. I look toward to helping guide TMTP toward a bright future.”
You can reach Tracey by phone at 216-860-1518 ext 707 or by email at tracey@musicaltheaterproject.org.
A Message from Bill Rudman and
Tracey Dwyer During COVID-19 |
When all the world is a hopeless jumble
And the raindrops tumble all around, Heaven opens a magic lane... |
You may be surprised to learn that the great lyricist Yip Harburg wrote those lines as part of the opening verse for “Over the Rainbow.” It’s a message that seems so right for this moment, doesn’t it? And although the song begins with Dorothy’s feelings of being lost and afraid, by the third line Harburg and composer Harold Arlen make us feel we can conquer anything.
Of course, just a few months ago, our lives were transformed overnight. No doubt you are worried, anxious and even overwhelmed by it all, but we want you to know that our arts community is coming together and has committed to its
own journey over the rainbow, finding creative ways to help you feel strong again.
Like you, your friends at The Musical Theater Project are adjusting to the impact of this transformation and looking forward to sharing the gift of song with you once again, in person. But for now, our staff is busy and safe in our own homes, developing new programs that enable us (as we say at TMTP) to Learn, Laugh, Cry and Love.
The very best way is to help us now is to stay engaged and connected with The Musical Theater Project. Although we may not be able to share a live performance for a while, thanks to technology, you can applaud TMTP through online programming. All you need is your computer, and it couldn’t be easier! We know you’ll like our online “specials,” and we would welcome a call or email to let us know how we can play an even bigger role in keeping your spirits up. Your loyal support has made our one-of-a-kind arts education programming and services possible for 20 years.
For more than a century the American musical has provided comfort and joy, helping us cope with difficult times like these, and that will not change. Yip Harburg said it best:
If happy little bluebirds fly
Beyond the rainbow,
Why, oh why, can’t I?
The answer is: We can! Because we’re all in this together. Please stay safe and keep your favorite songs in your heart.
Of course, just a few months ago, our lives were transformed overnight. No doubt you are worried, anxious and even overwhelmed by it all, but we want you to know that our arts community is coming together and has committed to its
own journey over the rainbow, finding creative ways to help you feel strong again.
Like you, your friends at The Musical Theater Project are adjusting to the impact of this transformation and looking forward to sharing the gift of song with you once again, in person. But for now, our staff is busy and safe in our own homes, developing new programs that enable us (as we say at TMTP) to Learn, Laugh, Cry and Love.
The very best way is to help us now is to stay engaged and connected with The Musical Theater Project. Although we may not be able to share a live performance for a while, thanks to technology, you can applaud TMTP through online programming. All you need is your computer, and it couldn’t be easier! We know you’ll like our online “specials,” and we would welcome a call or email to let us know how we can play an even bigger role in keeping your spirits up. Your loyal support has made our one-of-a-kind arts education programming and services possible for 20 years.
For more than a century the American musical has provided comfort and joy, helping us cope with difficult times like these, and that will not change. Yip Harburg said it best:
If happy little bluebirds fly
Beyond the rainbow,
Why, oh why, can’t I?
The answer is: We can! Because we’re all in this together. Please stay safe and keep your favorite songs in your heart.