Hadleyburg
BASED ON MARK TWAIN’S SHORT STORY
"THE MAN THAT CORRUPTED HADLEYBURG"
If you avoid temptation and are never tested, can you really claim honesty and incorruptibility?
That question is asked and answered in Hadleyburg, a new musical adaptation of the story. It is a tribute to Mark Twain, small towns, and human nature
The Wit and Wisdom of Mark Twain
Hadleyburg is a dark musical adaptation of Mark Twain’s biting satire. Set in a town that prides itself on being incorruptible, the story unfolds when a mysterious stranger leaves a sack of gold, testing the moral fiber of every citizen.
Through soaring melodies and sharp wit, our production explores the fragility of reputation and the high cost of vanity. Join us as we bring this classic American tale to the stage with a contemporary theatrical lens.
Featured Songs
The Stranger's Arrival
A mysterious stranger enters the town, setting the stage for the corruption of Hadleyburg.
The Sack of Gold
The town discovers the hidden fortune, sparking greed and moral decay among the citizens.
Hadleyburg's Pride
The town's reputation for honesty is tested as the citizens scramble to claim the gold.
The Final Reckoning
The truth is revealed, leaving the town to face the consequences of their corrupted hearts.
Praised by Critics, Loved by Audiences
Read early feedback from industry readings and workshops celebrating the development of our musical adaptation.
Composition Excellence
Best New Musical Score
Regional Theatre Awards 2024
Narrative Fidelity
Outstanding Book Adaptation
Twain Literary Society
Developmental Merit
3 Workshop Production Honors
Musical Theatre Lab 2023
Patron Choice
Audience Favorite Reading
Summer Stage Festival
"A sharp, biting adaptation that captures the dark humor of Twain. The score is as clever as the corruption it depicts."
Julian Thorne
The Theatre Review
"Hadleyburg is a masterclass in musical satire. The lyrics are razor-sharp and the melodies linger long after the show."
Sarah M.
Musical Theatre Fan
"The developmental workshop was a revelation. Seeing the story of Hadleyburg come to life through song was truly unique."
Robert L.
Arts Subscriber
"A brilliant, cynical, and deeply entertaining musical. It honors the source material while feeling entirely fresh."
Elena Vance
Metropolitan Arts
"The orchestration is sophisticated and the character arcs are perfectly realized. A must-see for any theatre lover."
Marcus S.
Stage Quarterly
"I was captivated by the workshop performance. The way the music builds the tension in Hadleyburg is simply genius."
Victoria C.
Patrons Circle
Follow the Development
Stay updated on upcoming readings, workshop dates, and production news for Hadleyburg.
Bring Hadleyburg to Your Stage
Request perusal scripts or secure developmental production rights to bring this dark musical satire to your local theatre community.
Perusal Scripts
Review the libretto and score for your next season.
Explore the full script and musical score of Hadleyburg. We provide digital perusal copies for artistic directors and production teams.
- Full perusal script access for directors
- Developmental workshop production rights
- Orchestral score and libretto materials
- Professional licensing support services
Production Rights
Secure your theatre's exclusive production rights.
We work with professional and community theatres to facilitate high-quality productions of Hadleyburg. Inquire about availability today.
- Regional Theatre Premiere Rights
- Educational & University Licensing
- Professional Touring Production Rights