#ThePlaceToB - a mini-musical is a 15-minute original musical in three scenes that tells the story of how a fictional Barrington 220 student, Gemma, finds her place. Along with her two friends, Sunny and Billy, we follow Gemma from elementary school—to middle school—and through high school—as they change through the years. The friends have different interests at different times, but they eventually reconnect to find that Barrington 220 is #ThePlaceToB. 

This musical was written, composed, and performed in partnership with over 50 Barrington 220 students and staff between February and August, 2024. The project featured the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a creative tool. AI was used by the group while brainstorming the plot, writing the dialogue, and creating the initial song lyrics. Although using AI was contemplated for songwriting and choreography, these elements were found to be better created using traditional methods.

#ThePlaceToB - a mini-musical premiered on August 15, 2024, during the Opening Day of school for the entire Barrington 220 staff. Sincere thanks to the Willow Creek production staff for their work on all technical aspects of the production—sound, lighting, cameras, and other support.