Writings

PLAYS/MUSICALS WRITTEN

Functions

A playwright with a master’s degree in mathematics approaches his fortieth birthday in the wake of the pandemic while living with his parents, with no jobs or dates on the horizon and few friends. As he struggles to make sense of other people, as well as the circumstances keeping him from getting ahead in life, he realizes that the world might not make as much sense as mathematics, still it is possible to make connections, in a story with something to prove.

Mixed Messages

A play about misunderstandings and failures to communicate between different people. Lexi, a college math whiz on the autism spectrum, faces expulsion for a misunderstanding while his online friend Daniela, a male to female transgender Latinx also on the spectrum isn’t fully accepted by her family. As Lexi and Daniela imagine themselves as coming from another planet, they soon find their home planet is real…and needs their help.

The Amber Crystal
Book and lyrics by Anton Spivack, music by Larry Spivack

In this original fantasy musical, two young siblings from Nebraska, Chuck and Belinda, are brought to the kingdom of Xyq in accordance with a prophecy. Chuck falls for the princess, Xandy, but she will only give her heart to the man who gives her The Amber Crystal, a talisman that grants the deepest desire of its bearer’s heart. Meanwhile the kingdom is attacked by a vicious sea serpent, Belinda hits it off with the prince, and a troll comes to collect on an old bargain by the queen. Will Chuck win over Xandy…or will he do something more important?

Let Down Your Hair!
(The Doowoperetta)
Book by Anton Spivack, music and lyrics by Larry Spivack

In this unique take on an old fairy tale, wicked witch Mother Gothel acquires a baby, Rapunzel, and keeps her locked up in a stairless tower in the woods. Prince Andrew comes across Rapunzel and sets out to rescue her, but Gothel thwarts him, leaving him blinded. With the help of a common couple, Gary and Vina, Andrew finds his way back to Rapunzel, proving that their love is stronger than Gothel’s magic.

CARTOONS

100% Comics

“21st-Century Musical Titles,” H&C #2, Spring 2020
“The Good Kid—Chapter 1: A Day in the Strife,” H&C #2, Spring 2020
“I Can’t Breathe,” Issue #3, H%C #3, Winter 2020
41 Facts about 41 Broadway Theaters, April 2022

ESSAYS

The Art of Autism

“Representation and Authenticity (It's Not Just Acting)”, 15 June 2021
“Why are Autistic People Forced to Accommodate the Neurotypical Culture?”, 26 December 2021
“The Hairspray Problem: Is Feel-Good in Musicals What Matters?”, 25 February 2022