Better stories, better songs, for a better world

OUR MISSION

Create engaging stories and quality music
Encourage children to be change makers
Educate and inspire audiences 
Support worthy organizations and causes

Check out our other great shows!

WHAT WE DO

Musicals for Change produces kids musicals with a mission - to encourage empathy and inspire positive action through engaging stories, fun songs, and big impact activities. Founded by composer and music educator Diane Beckstead, our company knows what kids like and teachers want! Conversation starters, special activities, and devotions are all included with our shows, along with unlimited downloadable scripts, scores, and production notes. Professional rehearsal and performance tracks by Dove-nominee Joe Milton guarantee our songs are second to none!  And because we know teachers want real substance, our stories feature kids being kids.  We're not big on goofy stereotypes or shallow characters.  Our characters are just like your students - funny, clever, often silly, deep thinking, well-meaning, and sometimes flawed.  Offstage, your students will have the opportunity to engage in conversations and service projects for nonprofit partners specific to each show's theme. Once you've performed a Musicals for Change show, you, your students, and your audience will have made the world a better place!   

WHO WE ARE

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Diane Beckstead has taught choral and general K-12 music in both public and private schools in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and New York for over 30 years.  A pianist and composer, she has written songs for Growing in Grace and Choristers Guild in addition to her original scores for Musicals for Change.  Currently teaching at a Lutheran school in the  Pittsburgh area, she workshops her new productions during a Summer Theatre Camp for ages 10-14.  In addition to her own musicals, she directs high school shows and teaches piano lessons.

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Born and raised outside of Philadelphia, PA, Melissa has been a lifelong pianist. As an adult, she has worked predominantly in the K-12 market working for SAFARI Montage, a multimedia streaming organization, and Schlessinger Media, a producer of educational children’s video serving as Creative Director and Vice President of Marketing. 10 years ago, Melissa took the natural leap to start her own company, MCV Teaching and Consulting LLC which combines all her favorite things – music, teaching and creative arts – to help students and clients alike to achieve their music and business pursuits.  ​​

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