Help us take the lessons of their lives… Center Stage
We’re recording a studio album of the best songs from the new musical…
This summer, a talented group of
skilled singers and instrumentalists —
will gather together to record an album of songs
from the new musical, Dietrich & Maria.
Why an Album of Just the Music?
Getting a musical to Broadway is not impossible — but it does take perseverance.
In 1970, a young composer named Andrew Lloyd Webber approached several theatrical producers with the idea of creating a new musical about Jesus of Nazareth. Their initial response was skeptical; they questioned, “Why do we need a musical about Jesus? Everyone already knows about him.” Undeterred by their doubts, Webber decided to record a concept album titled Jesus Christ Superstar. The success of the album led to the musical's debut on stage soon after.
Despite the acclaim of Superstar, in 1976, when Webber proposed a new musical focused on Eva Perón, the wife of Argentine President Juan Perón, producers responded with a different question: “Why would anyone want to produce a musical about Eva Perón? No one knows about her or cares about her.” So, once again, Webber recorded another concept album, Evita, and once again, the album proved successful, and once again, the album led to another on-stage debut of the full producation in 1978.
Notably, Les Misérables also began as a concept album, and more recently, SIX with its portrayal of the wives of Henry VIII also began as an album.
We aim to follow this proven formula. We believe that the songs of Dietrich & Maria, recorded with orchestra, will attract attention on their own, convincing producers to stage a full production, allowing us to bring the inspiring story of Dietrich & Maria to Broadway.
Dietrich & Maria… Their Story
Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s numerous works on ethics, theology, and practical Christianity are widely available. He is the subject of several notable biographies and a recent major motion picture release, Bonhoeffer.
No one would be more surprised than they that interest in their lives and legacy continues to build around the world, some 75 years later.
What’s behind this increasing curiosity?
Perhaps it’s their extraordinary love story, coupled with the remarkable courage and valor they displayed during one of civilization's darkest moments.
In an increasingly divided world, their legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in love and the importance of standing up for what is right. We need these values to inspire and guide us now, more than ever.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer, an up-and-coming professor, and Maria von Wedemeyer, from landed aristocracy, had a far better chance than most to emerge from the ruins of Hitler’s Germany to live happily ever after... had they only been willing to look the other way. But ... well that is what Dietrich & Maria is about.
Adding to such an engaging story is how they have entrusted us all with an eloquent record of their thoughts and feelings ...
making it possible to develop a winsome and inspiring musical story that springs from Dietrich’s and Maria’s own self-expression.
Wish to know more?
Maria von Wedemeyer later became the first woman to be department head in computing for Honeywell in Boston. Her remarkable correspondence with Dietrich can be found in Love Letters from Cell 92, Abingdon Press.
Our vision for Dietrich & Maria
We wrote Dietrich & Maria to illuminate
the transformative power that comes
when one finds within one’s self,
the courage to do the right thing.
We tell their true story —
through the romantic and engaging power of
Musical Theatre.
Our hope is that the lessons of their lives will
inspire audiences to
embrace honesty,
live with purpose,
and recognize that when we do life together in truth,
we can help build a world in which a new nobility prevails.
David G. Goodman
Authors of Dietrich & Maria
Glenn A. Pickett
You Can Help Us Make a Difference!
Starting in June, we’re recording a high-quality, studio concept album. We aim to win new fans, and entice Musical Theatre Producers to mount a professionally staged production, taking Dietrich & Maria to the next level. This album will feature a full orchestra of 36 instrumentalists, accompanying the vocal talents of 14 singers, ensuring a rich and dynamic sound.
To make this vision a reality, we are seeking to raise $50,000. But we can only do this with your support and help. It’s crucial in helping us achieve this ambitious project and bring the story of Dietrich & Maria to a wider audience.
Sponsor Recognition and Benefits
As a valued sponsor, you will receive the following benefits:
Name Recognition: Your name will be featured prominently on the online “liner notes” website that accompanies the finished recording. This page will be accessible on YouTube and other music streaming platforms.
Traditional CD: A physical CD will be produced, complete with liner notes that include the names of all sponsors, ensuring your contribution is recognized in a tangible format.
Exclusive Access: Sponsors will gain private access to a professionally produced video of the CBU production.
This provides a unique opportunity to view the project in its entirety.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to support this endeavor! Your sponsorship will not only make our production possible, but will also allow you to know that you have helped make a difference.
Join us — by becoming part of…
PROJECT VALKYRIE $5000
We’re looking for four major sponsors to enlist in Project Valkyrie.
Help shine a light in the darkness by contributing $5,000 or more to:
Sponsor the singers who will play Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Maria Von Wedemeyer
or our Orchestra Conductor, or our Producing Engineer.
THE BONHOEFFER FAMILY $2500
Be part of the Bonhoeffer family with a contribution of $2,500 and support our initiative by sponsoring
The Concertmaster (Lead Violin)
The Mixing Engineer
The Mastering Engineer
The CD duplication and Internet Distribution.
FINKENWALDE $400 - $500
Join the community at Finkenwalde, Bonhoeffer’s Underground Seminary:
Endow one of 28 “Faculty Chairs” for $500 and sponsor the
Woodwind, Brass, Piano, Synthesizer, Percussion & Harp players.
Scholarship a “Student” for $400 and sponsor one or more of 20 Violin, Viola, and Cello players.
Your gift is tax-deductible.
Because both Dietrich & Maria were Lutherans, Trinity Lutheran Church in Riverside, California, has graciously and generously agreed to serve as a tax-deductible pledge platform for the Dietrich & Maria recording project.
or, write
a check to:
Click Here To Give Online
Trinity Lutheran Church
5969 Brockton Ave,
Riverside, CA 92506
In the memo line please designate it for “Dietrich & Maria”
This partnership allows you to make secure contributions, ensuring your support helps bring this important project to life while also providing you with the benefits of tax-deductible giving.
Connect with us!
We would love the opportunity to connect with you in person, or via FaceTime or Zoom, to discuss why we believe that Dietrich & Maria has the potential to make a significant positive impact on the world. We recognize that producing the music of Dietrich & Maria is a "BHAG"—a term coined by Jim Collins and Jerry Porras that stands for "Big Hairy Audacious Goal."
Despite this ambitious undertaking, we have faith in the show's message and its ability to resonate with audiences. Our performances at California Baptist University were met with tremendous success, with every seat sold out. Additionally, we've received encouraging feedback from experienced professionals within the Musical Theatre community, who have praised the show and urged us to continue our efforts.
We look forward to sharing our vision with you and exploring how you can be a part of this exciting journey.
Join with us and help make a difference — for the good.
David’s Email
dvdgdmn@gmail.com
Glenn’s Email
GlennAPickett@Gmail.com