"Emily," the new Conner & Smith Musical

“Emily” is a new musical in development by composer Matt Conner and librettist and lyricist Stephen Gregory Smith. Inspired by the work of Emily Dickinson and being written for Broadway artist, singer, actor, and professor Susan Derry, the presentation features Derry with pianist Alex Tang. The Arts Club of Washington’s Literary and Drama Committees will host this preview at the historic Monroe House.

The evening begins with a beer-and-wine open bar, followed by the musical and a reception with the creators. The event is open to the public.

When: Wednesday, October 21, 2026, beginning at 6:30 PM

Showtimes: Beer and wine open bar at 6:30 PM; “Emily” at 7:00 PM; reception with the creators at 8:00 PM

Tickets: Arts Club members pay $30 and may RSVP, with the charge applied to their account. Non-member tickets cost $40. Tickets are non-refundable.

Registration: Guests must be registered.

Work: “Emily,” a new musical inspired by the work of Emily Dickinson and presented as a work-in-progress

Creators: Matt Conner, composer; Stephen Gregory Smith, librettist and lyricist

Cast and Musicians: Susan Derry stars, accompanied by pianist Alex Tang

Venue: Arts Club of Washington at the historic Monroe House, 2017 I Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006

Parking: Discounted parking is available at Colonial Garage, 2001 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W., at the corner of I Street and 20th Street. Parking is free for members who present their membership card.

Presented By: The Arts Club of Washington’s Literary and Drama Committees

Accessibility and Audience: The event is open to the public.