Composer Kate Diaz’s Musical Journey in the New Idina Menzel Musical “Redwood”
Kate Diaz, a talented composer and songwriter, recently took a significant leap in her career by writing songs for the new musical “Redwood,” featuring renowned singer Idina Menzel. This musical, directed and written by Tina Landau, explores the transformative journey of Jesse, who seeks healing amidst Northern California’s magnificent redwood forests.
The Inspiration Behind “Redwood”
Following a hike in Griffith Park, Los Angeles, Diaz felt inspired when she received a directive from Landau in January 2021. The creative team behind “Redwood” sought to collaborate with young, innovative composers not strictly versed in musical theater. “Tina reached out to me to explore my music and potentially collaborate,” Diaz shared, recalling the initial connection.
The Creative Process
The correspondence was thorough; Diaz received a synopsis of the show, detailed descriptions of the set design, and photographs of individuals climbing redwood trees. These elements contributed to her creative vision, culminating in the composition of “The Great Escape,” a pivotal song for the production. “I sent it off with crossed fingers,” Diaz noted, expressing her anticipation for the team’s reaction.
Bringing the Characters to Life
Upon hearing Diaz’s composition, both Menzel and Landau recognized her unique ability to encapsulate the essence of their narrative. Diaz’s lyrics seamlessly integrate with the show’s foundation, embodying themes of renewal and self-discovery. A sample from the song illustrates this sentiment:
“Opens my arms, I’m ready to release / In my mind, I suddenly become peace.”
Diaz is currently performing at the Nederland Theatre, where she has had the opportunity to work with a remarkable cast, including Menzel, alongside other talented actors such as De’adre Aziza and Michael Park. Reflecting on her collaborative experience, Diaz highlighted the joy of witnessing actors breathe life into their characters through music.
Reflections on the Experience
In an interview, Diaz discussed her excitement about writing for such a talented cast. “This project allowed me to create songs that further develop characters and express their emotions,” she said. As both lyricist and orchestrator, she expressed her fascination with how musical elements enhanced storytelling throughout the performances. Diaz hopes that audiences will find peace and joy in “Redwood,” reminiscent of the beauty of nature that inspired the show.
Learning from Idina Menzel and Tina Landau
When asked about her preparation process, Diaz admitted to immersing herself in Menzel’s entire song catalog. “I wrote specifically for her voice, ensuring that the range reflected her capabilities,” she explained, underscoring the importance of character development within the musical. Both Landau and Menzel provided guidance throughout the creative process, with Diaz learning about theatrical terminology and nuances that are common in musical productions.
Musical Styles and Influences
The score of “Redwood” blends an array of musical textures, merging indie pop and rock with orchestral elements. “Each character’s song exhibits unique musical nuances, and the overall score provides a vibrant backdrop for the show’s narrative,” said Diaz. The interplay between instrumental melodies and vocal performances plays a crucial role in the storytelling, enhancing the audience’s emotional engagement.
Challenges and Inspirations
Writing for the theater posed challenges for Diaz, particularly given the dynamic nature of stage productions. “Every aspect evolves up to opening night, requiring careful adjustments in the music,” she remarked. However, she found satisfaction in the collaborative efforts of diverse teams, emphasizing that theater is indeed a collective endeavor.
Diaz drew inspiration from various musical influences, stating: “The Beatles initially sparked my passion for songwriting, and later, I found inspiration in the orchestration of Sting’s work and film composers like Thomas Newman and Max Richter.”
Conclusion
“Redwood” represents an important step for Kate Diaz as she continues to expand her musical repertoire and reach broader audiences through this rich and immersive storytelling. Her hope is that viewers not only enjoy the performance but also feel encouraged to connect with nature and find their paths to healing.
