Summer Adaptation: Transforming a cherished novel into a live stage production on Broadway via BrownConnect Summer Institute
Brown University played host to an exciting summer event, the BrownConnect Summer Institute, which brought together students and new graduates for various projects, including the development of a Broadway musical adaptation of the bestselling novel "Wonder".
Led by Broadway producer Jill Furman, the workshops offered opportunities to participate in projects ranging from drafting a social justice reform memo to writing a medical case report. The focus, however, was on adapting "Wonder" into a Broadway musical.
Jill Furman, a Brown alumna, led new play development workshops as part of the BrownConnect Summer Institute. She found the student input helpful and fun for making early decisions about her production of "Wonder".
Among the participants was William Zhou, a Class of 2020 graduate who is soon to begin work at Bain and Company. He appreciated the thought and intention that goes into making media and learned about the importance of innovative collaboration that transcends the stage.
Elana Confino-Pinzon, a Brown student, also participated in the workshops. She expressed interest in becoming a theater producer after gaining insights into the role during the workshops.
The group faced challenges in adapting Auggie's dog, a constant presence in the novel, to the stage. Logistical, financial, and other practical concerns were considered as they brainstormed alternative ways to show Auggie's growth that might better translate to the stage.
Francesca Sabel, a rising senior at Brown, gained insights into challenges and opportunities in developing new plays for large stages. She learned that practical considerations often shape creative decisions in the performing arts.
Bashar Zaidat, an independent concentrator studying computational neuroscience, found the insights from the workshops valuable for any career. He learned about the importance of business sense in bringing a show to life.
The BrownConnect Summer Institute, organized by the Center for Careers and Life after Brown (CareerLAB) and the President's Advisory Council on Internships, hosted over 1,100 students and new graduates. The three-week event aimed to help those whose original research, internships, and professional plans were derailed by pandemic-related closings.
Although the Broadway producer involved in the project was not directly identified in the search results, and the names of Brown students and alumni involved were not found in the provided information, the impact of the workshops was evident in the insights and experiences gained by the participants.
The workshops provided participants with professional insights and experiences in a wide range of fields, making it a valuable experience for all involved.
