Looking for a new book to pick up? Check out Hello, Broadway! A Young Person’s Guide to the World of Musical Theater by Emily Hurd. With her book being released on September 23, 2025, Broadway Direct caught up with Hurd to discuss what her inspirations are, why audiences should read her book, and more.
1. What inspired you to become an author?
A couple of years ago, I was reading a book to my son that had classical music audio clips in it, and it occurred to me that I’d love to have a book like that featuring showtunes. I called my friend Michael Mitnick right away – he’s steeped in the world of musical theater and also has young children – and he loved the idea, too. So I guess I was inspired to become an author not because I wanted to write a book exactly, but because I had an idea for a book that I really wanted to bring to life.
2. What was the inspiration behind your book?
We wanted to create a book that would introduce young children to the magic of Broadway in an accessible, joyful way. We hoped to capture how special the experience is—you get dressed up, travel to a grand theatre, arrive early and wait in line—and then you’re transported into a world on stage that’s full of emotion, while you sit quietly and take it all in. By including short song clips from real Broadway shows, we were able to bring that experience to life for children in a way that hadn’t been done before.
3. Why should audiences pick up Hello, Broadway!?
If musical theater has meant something to you in your life and you want to spark that same joy in a child, it’s the perfect introduction. Kids can experience the magic of Broadway no matter where they live. Then, when they get to see a live show – whether that’s at a local school or at a community theatre, or in a professional setting – they’ll have that much more of an appreciation and understanding.
4. If you didn’t need to sleep at night, what would you spend your time doing?
I’m pretty crafty, and I do lots of knitting and sewing projects. I also love to run, cook, bake, and read. And of course, I love to go to the theater; I’m lucky to live just a short subway ride from Broadway.
5. What is your favorite NYC spot?
So hard to pick just one! I love the beauty of Central Park’s Conservatory Garden. I love Nolita, home to my first NYC apartment. I love old favorite restaurants and ice cream shops that hold so many memories from two decades living here. And of course, I love Broadway – now more than ever, looking at it through my kids’ eyes and the lens of Hello, Broadway!
