Telling the story of Chrysanthemum through music allows us to celebrate what makes each person unique. Musicals have a special way of connecting with audiences—through song, movement, and emotion, they bring stories to life in a way that words alone cannot. A musical invites everyone to feel, reflect, and see themselves in the story. It encourages us to embrace our individuality, be proud of who we are, and find joy in staying true to ourselves.

With singable melodies and lively accompaniment, the songs will bring Chrysanthemum to life on stage, creating a joyful and engaging experience for audiences of all ages.

Click here to listen to a sampling of the songs in progress.

The story of Chrysanthemum is a perfect fit for a musical adaptation. With its vibrant cast of characters, loving parents, and classmates navigating friendship and acceptance, the story naturally lends itself to heartfelt songs and expressive storytelling.

A musical allows us to dive deeper into powerful themes such as self-acceptance, bullying, and the importance of standing up for ourselves and others. Without straying far from the original book, the stage version expands on the classmates’ personalities—revealing that each child carries their own insecurities. Even Jo, who teases Chrysanthemum about her long name, secretly worries that her own name is too short and wishes it were just as special.

Chrysanthemum’s parents—caring, concerned, and always supportive—are a relatable pair for any audience. Educators will appreciate the special insights provided in songs like "Nap Time is My Time."

Bringing Chrysanthemum to the stage as a musical creates space for children and families to reflect, laugh, and connect—all while celebrating what makes each of us wonderfully unique. 

Read the Script here.

Besides the marvelous main characters in the story of Chrysanthemum—Victoria, Rita, and Jo—along with all of the other classmates featured in the book, Michael expands the world of the musical by incorporating beloved characters from several of Kevin Henkes’ other children’s stories.

By weaving these personalities into Chrysanthemum: The Musical, the children and their everyday interactions with one another—and with the adults around them—are brought vividly to life:

• Wendell – the outspoken, bossy classmate
  
  

• Chester & Wilson – inseparable best friends who always do everything together
  
  

• Owen – the insecure child who clings tightly to his favorite blanket
  
  

• Lilly – eager to show off her purple purse (and quick to mention her baby brother)
  
  

• Wemberly – the constant worrier, anxious about absolutely everything

We are excited about the opportunity to present Chrysanthemum: The Musical with our Irving Youth Theatre young performers—primarily elementary and middle school students—at the Dupree Theatre in the Irving Arts Center, conveniently located near DFW Airport. Irving Youth Theatre is scheduled to stage the new musical production the weekend of February 20–21, 2026. The Dupree Theatre seats approximately 250 patrons, and our productions typically feature three performances.

In addition to the performances, we envision exciting community partnerships. Ideally, we could collaborate with the Irving Public Library to showcase Mr. Henkes’ books and highlight the world premiere of the musical. It would also be extraordinary if the Irving Arts Center were able to exhibit Mr. Henkes’ artwork in its lobby galleries, creating a rich, multi-faceted celebration of his work.

There are countless possibilities for promotion and engagement—sharing the beloved stories Mr. Henkes has created, while bringing his unforgettable characters to life on stage through music, song, and dance.

Michael Hill, a lifelong music educator, has taught students from Kindergarten through 12th grade and served as both a youth and music minister. He also dedicated six years to serving on the local school board. Recently, Michael and his wife, Lisa, launched Irving Youth Theatre—a passion project created to give young people across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex the opportunity to shine both on stage and behind the scenes. Now entering retirement from public education, they have produced several Disney musicals and continue to inspire young performers. Michael's latest creative venture is bringing Kevin Henkes’ beloved mouse to life in a brand-new musical for children of all ages, inspired by the timeless story of Chrysanthemum.