Elise has been celebrated as a versatile and dynamic composer, able to seamlessly move between genres while maintaining the sensitivity and complexity that makes their music unique. Though their roots are in musical theatre, they’ve been very successful in the contemporary atmosphere during their studies at McGill University. They are currently in their third year of an undergraduate degree in composition at the Schulich School of Music (with a minor in Gender, Sexuality, and Feminist Studies).
See the full video of Cutlass (abridged) below.
Up Next
“I’m very excited to announce that I’ll be partnering with Bloomsbury House Stage Productions to bring you a night of new music, community, and queer-positive joy! On March 14th and 15th (at 7pm and 2pm, respectively), a screening of my in-progress musical, Cutlass, will be shown at the Temple Ballroom! Cutlass is a fresh retelling of the lives of Anne Bonny and Mary Read, the two most infamous female pirates in western history. This production was mounted on January 15th and 16th in Montréal at the Tuesday Night Café Theatre, and was generously filmed by TVM McGill. This version of Cutlass was semi-staged and costumed, showcasing 10 new pieces arranged for vocalists, piano, violin, and cello, meant to offer a taste of the epic full musical to come. After the screening, which will last approximately 55 minutes, we are proud to be showcasing live performances by local musicians. Finally, after the show, everyone in the audience will be welcome to participate in karaoke! Our goal is to create a space where people (especially queer people) can find community and enjoy new music together. We’re also thrilled to announce that 50% of the proceeds will be donated to Trans Wellness Ontario. You’ll have only TWO CHANCES to participate — get your tickets now!”
Previously
The Cutlass Workshop at Tuesday Night Cafe Theatre
At 8pm on January 15th and 16th, ten pieces and four scenes from Cutlass were debuted at Tuesday Night Cafe Theatre. While the show will ultimately be scored for small orchestra and a full chorus, this production will feature instead three advanced performers from the Schulich School of Music on violin, cello, and piano, and a cast of nine actors. The workshop stage is the first step on the road to Broadway!
Red the musical at the Kordazone Theatre
In October 2022, my first original musical, Red, was debuted at the Kordazone Theatre. The show was inspired by Lewis Carol’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” following the tragic past of the murderous Queen of Hearts. The tale included many of Carol’s classic characters (such as the Duchess, King of Hearts, and Cheshire Cat), while also adding in new stories of love, rebellion, and grave misunderstandings. We were very grateful to work with several talented musicians and actors to bring this show to life!
