Article by Kaitlyn Clark

Clare Cooper, musical director of a new jazz musical comedy, FIFTH AVENUE, has shared some of the wisdom that allowed her to build this spectacular show. “Fifth Avenue, A Jazz Musical Comedy” officially opened at Don’t Tell Mama Theater on Monday, January 8th, leaving the audience delighted! This musical is sure to take you on a rollercoaster of laughter and song, and we want to tell you more about one of the maestros behind the scenes!

Clare is no stranger to writing music. She is an established singer-songwriter with an impressive discography, including rock, pop, and now a theater. She has written three musicals thus far and is working on another that is set to launch later this year! She also tells us she’s passionate about being “able to bring a show to life and to work with such a talented cast.”

This stellar cast has been working hard to give audiences a night to remember, but Clare is the musical master leaving audience members with a few earworms! Songs like “Strike It Up” and “The Grand Tour” are already receiving praise for their fun and catchy tunes!

Tackling this new show, Clare expressed that one of the most important skills is bringing yourself back in time. “Fifth Avenue” takes place in 1920s Manhattan, showing a hilarious take on the underground nightclub scene of the time. Knowing how uncommon it was for women to be in these crowds, Clare enjoyed bringing herself into the mentality of a woman who is disruptive and a bit “subversive” by societal standards.

The plot of “Fifth Avenue” follows business partners, Max and Willy, two immigrant childhood friends who are eager to achieve the American Dream and go legit with their business. They establish a nightclub on the east side and – cue the pandemonium!

Regarding these topics, Clare – along with director, Andrea Andresakis, and composers, Susan Crawford and Daniel Seidman – hopes that the crowd leaves with a new understanding of how things have changed and stayed the same in the last century. “People come here with high expectations, but will always have to overcome obstacles to become successful,” says Clare. The heart of the American Dream and the challenges it takes to get there remain the same, and the directors are hopeful that the audience will pull inspiration, as well as comedic joy, from this performance.

“Fifth Avenue” will run on Monday Nights from January 8h through February 12, 2024, at 7:00 pm. Reserve your seats now and we guarantee you’ll leave this show with a smile on your face, and perhaps a newfound appreciation for Jazz Music! (Ticket Link)

Kaitlyn Clark is a freelance writer and Public Relations service provider with a variety of interests and passions. She has established expertise in non-profit fundraising and entertainment promotion. Since graduating from the Syracuse University Newhouse School, she is based in the New York City area and is available for freelance assignments.