A Conversation with Jeanine Tesori & Lisa Kron

(Cassandra Yerkes photo)

This unforgettable evening in downtown Peterborough, NH was filled with insight and humor as the duo shared behind-the-scenes stories from the creation of Fun Home—the groundbreaking Broadway musical adaptation of Alison Bechdel’s 2006 graphic memoir.

They told the story of how Fun Home made theater history as the first Broadway musical to feature a lesbian protagonist, leaving a lasting impact on both audiences and the industry. Tesori and Kron’s creative partnership has sparked vibrant communities, from Broadway stages to online spaces where fans share moving covers of Ring of Keys. Their collaboration continues to inspire, each artist elevating the other’s work through artistic synergy.

While in residence at MacDowell, the two have teamed up once again to adapt The Daring Life and Dangerous Times of Eve Adams by historian Jonathan Ned Katz. This project marks their first major partnership since Fun Home, a work that was, in their words, “a life-changing collaboration in our histories of remarkable collaborations."

Jeanine Tesori is a celebrated composer best known for her work in musical theater, including Fun Home (2015), Caroline, or Change (2003), Thoroughly Modern Millie (2002), and Shrek the Musical (2008). With multiple Tony nominations and a reputation for blending diverse musical styles, Tesori has also composed for opera, film, and television, solidifying her influence in contemporary theater.

Lisa Kron is an acclaimed playwright, actress, and lyricist recognized for her sharp storytelling and humor-infused explorations of identity and family. In addition to writing the book and lyrics for Fun Home, her notable works include Well (2004) and 2.5 Minute Ride (1999). She is also a founding member of the theater company The Five Lesbian Brothers.