About the Show
Backbeard: The Musical is an original stage production written by Sage Colleges faculty Michael Musial and Matthew McElligott, with Larry Tuxbury and Brian Sheldon. It is based on the popular children’s books by Matthew McElligott. Backbeard premiered at the Theatre Institute at Sage in June, 2016.
This rollicking musical tells the tale of Backbeard, the hairiest pirate who ever lived, and his quest to answer the question, “How should a pirate look?” When a rowdy birthday party ruins his clothes, a pair of persuasive tailors convince Backbeard to try a colorful new outfit of patterned trousers, a colorful coat, and a pig. Now the fearsome pirate must face his greatest challenge: winning the acceptance of the pirate council, the townspeople, and even his own crew, in a high-spirited story of courage, acceptance, and standing up for who you are.
Backbeard Sails to New York City!
Backbeard: The Musical was recently named a Grand Jury Selection of the New York Musical Festival’s Next Link Project and was staged in New York City in August 2017 The Acorn Theatre at Theatre Row. After a thrilling, successful run, the reviews are in!
“Is it possible the best in the fest is a children’s show? If so I expect Backbeard: The Musical to be honored. Backbeard: The Musical will have a strong life in the children’s theatre touring circuit with it’s strong message and well written material. Bravo to all those involved.” – Times Square Chronicles
“From it’s rousing opening number to it’s giddy finale, the fast-paced, 70-minute Backbeard: The Musical is a children’s show that adults will also enjoy. It’s delightful on every level, with pirates galore.” – Theater Scene
“The show’s pace and theme is enhanced by swashbuckling songs with lyrics so incredibly witty, they earned more laughs than the spoken script. The lessons of the original Backbeard children’s books were standing up for one’s ideas, whether it be in fashion, friendships, or career choices like piracy. What a wonderful delivery system Backbeard: The Musical provides. And it confirms my deep and firmly held conviction that Broadway musicals (as this one might be), can teach us lessons and about life.” – Theater Pizzazz
Licensing The Musical
For questions, comments, or inquiries about licensing Backbeard for your own production, please contact me for more information.