Projects: Future Show Questions

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about Frank's upcoming projects:
There is also a separate FAQ page for Past Show Questions.

What is the status of Frank's upcoming projects? (Usually asked about a specific project.)

Each of Frank's projects involves different people, and the planning for each takes a different course. The best way to know what is going on is to keep a regular watch for updates from reliable sources. A good place to start is the Brief Updates page or the information listed on the Projects page.

When will a production or recording (or other details or updates) be announced for a project?

Most announcements are made as soon as they have been confirmed. If announcements are being made about a project, or information on it is posted someplace in a "current" form, then it is likely that all of the confirmed details are being presented. For example, if what you read says that a production is coming to a certain city in a certain month, these are probably the case, but a specific venue and date are either not decided or not yet confirmed. Continue to check in the location you first saw the news, as well as others, for further updates.

What are some reliable sources of project information?

Updates can usually be trusted from source such as:

Artists themselves: performers, composers, lyricists, production companies and performing groups.
Official websites or official fan clubs for any artist just mentioned.
Press releases or announcements from an artist's manager or agent, or a show's producers or press office.

With news that comes from these kinds of sources, those making the announcement are much more likely to wait until things are definite before they release an update. These individuals (including myself, as webmaster of this site) try to balance "getting information out as soon as possible" with "ensuring that things are certain, before saying anything about them." This is done in order to not mislead anyone, and to not frequently raise hopes that might then be disappointed.

It is also a good idea to watch industry news sources, either in print or online. With these especially, and also any of the sources listed above, keep in mind that the information presented may contain inaccuracies, and that plans might change later.

How can I tell which news updates are accurate? And how accurate are they?

With any project, there are often rumors as well as announcements of plans which may or may not turn out to happen. Following the progress of a show - especially a new show in development - can therefore be quite frustrating. It is a good idea to think of any production news as if it is a rumor, unless it has been posted or confirmed by a reliable source.

Another thing you can do is to watch the wording of announcements when they come out. If a project "is in talks to" or "hopes to" do something, then it probably has not yet been confirmed. Some projects, as they are confirmed, may use verbiage like "is expected to" or "should" or "plans to" do something. These are more certain, but include a subtle disclaimer (usually included intentionally) that change may still happen. The surest announcements are those that include a definite date and venue name.

Also keep in mind that updates are most accurate when they are made. When something is announced, it is expected at that time to happen. Plans may move away from that as time progresses. If you find old postings of production news, be sure to check for a date on the article or listing.

Why do project plans change so often? Does it mean that a project won't happen?

Many, many factors need to come together in order for a project to reach a public presentation. Whether it is a recording, or especially a work presented on stage, there are dozens - sometimes hundreds - of people that work to make things happen, and numerous important issues that need to be resolved. Some of these things have to happen in a certain order, and others need to be planned out carefully so they come together all at once. These days especially, the entertainment industry is as agitable as any other. Given the very nature of the business environment and the number of elements involved in the process, changes can and do often occur.

A change in plans, even to postpone an opening or release date, does not mean that a project is in trouble or that it won't happen. It simply means that the plans at that point have taken another turn. The team of people who are already working on the project are still dedicated to seeing it through. It is just a matter of getting everything worked out, and determining the time and place where things will finally happen. The best rule of thumb is to be patient, and keep an eye out for further updates.

How can I audition for one of Frank's shows?

This website does not post audition news, and is not connected to the audition process for any show.

The large-scale, premiere productions of Frank's musicals take place at various venues, and can call for Equity-only casts, or a mixed cast of professional performers. The best places to watch for audition notices for these shows are the regular industry sources such as the Backstage print publication, Backstage.com or ActorsEquity.org.

For details on auditioning for local and regional productions of Frank's shows, check the Past Show Questions Page.

If you didn't find the answer to your question on this page, check the Questions Index, or try a Site Search.

Does Frank give master classes? Where can I find out more about them?

Frank does give master classes. When they are open to the public, details will be posted in advance on this site (usually in conjunction with some other event).

Inquiries about booking master classes can be directed to WildhornPR@aol.com