The 17th season of New York Theatre Barn's New Works Series will launch March 4 at The 52nd Street Project in NYC, featuring excerpts from two new musicals, plus a conversation with the writers moderated by NYTB artistic director Joe Barros. The two new musicals being showcased are A Whisper Called Freedom and Spectrum.

With a book, music and lyrics by Oliver Houser, A Whisper Called Freedom follows intersex filmmaker Henry Howman after the devastating failure of his debut feature. Henry embarks on a pandemic road trip with his girlfriend to escape his floundering career, but finds himself immersed in a spiritual dance training in the mountains of California with satin tunics, conspiracy theories, and exploding goats. The work is inspired by Houser's real-life experience of joining a cult.

Spectrum features a book, music and lyrics by Stephanie L. Carlin, and is directed by Kate Trammell. Set in 1995, it follows Matthew, a young man on the autism spectrum who has just told he needs to move out of his parents’ place. He finds the quietest spot with no stimulation whatsoever—a gay bar.

The excerpt works will be performed at 7 PM ET, with the moderated conversation following. In-person and livestream attendance opportunities are available. For tickets and more information, visit here.