Turning Thirty, The Musical
Turning Thirty, The Musical is a new musical about a young couple who are debating starting a family and are suddenly faced with a diagnosis of cancer.
Based on the true story of Tom Willner's battle with testicular cancer, "Turning Thirty, The Musical" has been presented as staged readings, concert performances, and a professional workshop and showcase. It received a standing ovation each time and has raised thousands of dollars for cancer-fighting charities. Tom later used his musical to help thousands of medical professionals deepen their understanding of patients' experiences, enhancing clinical empathy and addressing burnout. Songs from the musical were also featured in his popular TEDx talk with over 100,000 views on YouTube called “Transforming Learning Through Stories and Music,” where he shares the lessons he learned through a life-threatening illness and how stories and music build connections through compassion, wisdom, and joy. He continues to use his musical in performances and speaking engagements nationwide to help others thrive after adversity.
Reviews:
“There is something really substantial here. The last song ‘I got life and life is good’ created joy in me – a precious thing to earn.” - Tom Key, Executive Artistic Director of Theatrical Outfit
"Seeing things differently is the guiding principle behind 'Turning Thirty,' which attempts to do for cancer what the Tony Award-winning musicals 'Next to Normal' and 'Rent' did for bipolar disorder and people living with HIV, respectively. Set it to music... Similarly, Willner's score packs emotional wallops along with punch lines." - The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
"The musical captures their devotion in 'I’m Here for You' as well as the surrealism of navigating cancer treatment in 'The Battle' between his doctor and cancer personified." - Atlanta INtown
Audience Feedback:
"Fantastic! Such a great show... I would highly recommend it to others."
"Bravo! Tom and the cast were amazing - what a great show!!"
"I was blown away by the music and the movement of the story. Huge success!"
"What a wonderful and moving show."
"Turning Thirty was a blast. Amazing vocal talent ...a top-notch cast all around."
"Thank you for having the courage to share your personal story with the world."
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