Matt DeMaria

Composer, Playwright, Music Director, Orchestrator, Pianist (AFM Local 802)

Vincent Cast Album

I had written for a long time. I debuted a single song once a long time ago. But five years ago I began writing with the intention of having a full musical to share. Part of me thought it would never see the light of day. But I did end up sharing it. And through it I’ve meet some of the most important people in my life. I’ve met people who believe in theater and the arts the way I do. Who also challenged my views and made me think about the world differently and I’ve become a better person because of it.

Art can do that. And currently we’re living through a time where the government is actively trying to silence art. Not even subtly…they are publicly defunding and stopping work from existing. So it’s imperative that we keep going and creating.

When Vincent went up at Long Island University…I was beyond proud. Proud of myself yes…but proud to be surrounded by some of the most amazing people doing the best work. Work from their hearts and their souls. That being said. It’s just a show. A musical to make you think and make you feel good.

Then on the closing night we received an email. It congratulated us on a wonderful show and complimented the many aspects from actors to musicians to set, lights and so on.

But the last paragraph…

“Sadly, my husband and I lost our beautiful, sweet, daughter over 7 years ago to suicide after her struggles with mental illness for 15 years. She was a wonderful artist and very kind, caring person. She was also an excellent writer and left behind many great poems. Your play and the performance of the cast spoke volumes to us.

We thank you for being the voice to get this subject matter out to the masses, as well as to increase awareness, greater understanding, reflection, acceptance, and inclusion.”

That’s what made me realize how beyond special this all was. And not what I created…but specifically this cast. This crew. This version. And that’s why it’s so important to me to capture it forever for everybody to hear.

So this begins our kickstarter to get this cast in the studio and record the album. It’s a HUGE undertaking for the small grassroots theater company we are. All the help will be needed and appreciated. This WILL happen. But all the help you give will go further and further to making it perfect. The way this show deserves.

Allan Nichols "Chasing the Thrills" - Joe's Pub 2024

Gil Benbrook - Talkin’ Broadway

Matthew DeMaria achieves sensational notes and sounds from both the excellent five-piece band and the cast.”

Lindsay Christians - The CAP Times

Matthew DeMaria conducts a guitar-driven rock score that feels intensely of its time.”