September 2025
The Bethesda Little Theatre to Present World Premiere of French Cupcakes: A New Musical by Neal Learner
Bethesda, Md. – The Bethesda Little Theatre (BLT) is pleased to present the world premiere of French Cupcakes, a New Musical by Neal Learner, an Alexandria, Va.-based writer and composer.
Performance will take place October 10-12 and 17-19 at the Bethesda Writer’s Center, 4508 Walsh Street, Bethesda, Md. For tickets: www.blt-online.org
This is BLT’s second world premiere of a musical by Learner. The company produced his sung-through musical Trees in 2023.
“We’re delighted to offer a venue for Neal’s work,” says BLT President Leslie Blaha. “His unique stories and diverse musical styles appeal broadly to our audiences. French Cupcakes is a magical story about how people sometimes must adjust their dreams to fit their realities.”
The two-act musical follows the lives of characters working at French Cupcakes, a legendary café-bakery in a quaint midwestern college town.
More than a bakery, the establishment is a place of dreams. Café manager/grad student Tina dreams of becoming a diplomat. House musician Nick dreams of becoming a country music star. Second year MBA student Bridget dreams of becoming a Wall Street titan. Baristas dream of becoming Cancan dancers in Paris. And café owner Pierre dreams of selling his shop and retiring along the French Riviera.
When Pierre puts his dream into action, the others scramble to adjust their own dreams. Dreams ruined, dreams deferred, dreams realized: French Cupcakes explores the twists and turns of our desires that fuel this thing called life.
The musical is directed by Michael Fowle, with music direction by Paul Rossen, and choreography by Cathy Oh.
Learner knows well how one’s dreams don’t always turn out as expected. He entered the University of Michigan School of Music and Theater as a violin performance major but quickly realized his dream of playing in professional orchestras was out of reach. Nevertheless, Learner continued to play his violin in community orchestras, while pursuing his other musical interests of singing, songwriting and composing.
“Achieving professional success in the performing arts and other competitive professions has always been difficult, and is no less so today,” says Learner.
“Social media amplifies the glamours life of professional actors, musicians, authors, designers, athletes, and others,” he adds. “While one should always pursue their dreams, it’s important to have a back up plan if they don’t come true. You can still enjoy your creative pursuits at the highest levels, even if it’s not your living. The Washington, D.C., region offers a multitude of opportunities for talented amateur actors and musicians to pursue their crafts.”
For more information on Bethesda Little Theatre and French Cupcakes, visit https://blt-online.org/