Redwood starring Idina Menzel has officially arrived on Broadway, celebrating its opening night earlier this month on February 13 at the Nederlander Theatre. The new musical, co-conceived by Menzel and director Tina Landau, marks a Broadway debut for its composer and co-lyricist Kate Diaz, whose previous credits are primarily in film and TV.
Fresh off the show’s opening, Diaz caught up with Broadway Direct to chat about how old videos of The Beatles inspired her, the elements of Redwood that will excite audiences, and her favorite part of Central Park.
1. What inspired you to become a composer?
I started playing guitar and writing songs when I was 8. My third grade teacher at the time was a huge Beatles fan, and she played their music all the time in class. I started watching old Beatles interviews on YouTube where they’d talk about songwriting, so I decided to try writing my own songs. Shout out to Mrs. Elder!
2. Who in your field inspires you?
At the moment I am really inspired by our Redwood pit band. As a composer, you write by yourself a lot so getting to work with such incredibly talented musicians daily during the theater process and hearing them bring themselves to this score has been so amazing. They’re also all just such nice people.
3. What will audiences be most excited about seeing in Redwood?
I hope audiences are excited by the transportive and emotional experience of our show. I think the story is very introspective, and I hope it leaves the audience with something to think about in their own lives, as well as a desire to connect with nature.
4. If you didn’t need to sleep at night, what would you spend your time doing?
I like to read but haven’t had a lot of time to do so lately, so I’d catch up on that!
5. What is your favorite NYC spot?
I love walking through Central Park! My favorite part is the Shakespeare Garden.
Catch Redwood on Broadway, now playing at the Nederlander Theatre.