Excerpts
For a link to excerpts from the book and score, click below:
For access to the full book and musical score, please contact Jody Johnson.
Videos
The music demonstration videos were recorded and produced by Paul Langford Music of Chicago with solos by Chloe Langford, age 14. They are not in the exact settings of the musical but preview the musical style of the work.
“Agin’ Out”
“Agin’ Out” follows the opening court scene where the judge has challenged Misty on who she will become after aging out of foster care. Misty had been adamant about getting out of the system for several years, but in a discussion with her social worker and CASA, she admits her worry about aging out, reflected in this piece. In the regular production, her social worker, CASA, and the court services officer will provide background vocals.
“Worth It in the End” (in production)
On the day Misty enrolls in a new high school, she meets Jake Kramer (the other lead) who shows her around the school during a class change. The piece introduces Jake’s personality and initiates his relationship with Misty in a rousing and humorous piece that also provides a bit of teenage social commentary on how adults view adolescents. The video is a simulation that uses just four high school students. In production the whole company will perform with Jake as the lead.
“I Looked to See You There”
After an argument with her social worker stirs up traumatic memories, Misty races home sobbing. After being consoled by her foster mother, she is left alone and reflects on her mother in this piece. It alludes to her mother’s addiction, Misty’s entry into foster care, and her abandonment by her mother. This scene sets the stage for her next encounter with Jake which takes their friendship to a deeper level.
“What I Have Now”
This is the finale, and by this point Misty has come to learn that each day is a gift, that freedom comes in claimed moments in an often complicated journey. In production the piece will be sung by Misty and Jake with the full company added at the end.