Drama Queens, a five-star arts journal focusing on female artists

INTERVIEW BY KAITLYN CLARK

Alyssa Williams is set to bring her original musical “Two Thousand Miles” to the Empire City this March! After experiencing an inspirational response in Orlando, Florida, she is thrilled to announce a special industry presentation on Friday, March 15th at Open Jar Studios! (1601 Broadway – 11th floor, New York, NY) 

“Two Thousand Miles” is a poignant narrative about interpersonal relationships and the ways we deal with the challenges life presents. The story follows Davis, a former business student turned playwright, learning to live with Lupus. Alongside him, devoted boyfriend Nate is learning what it takes to be a caretaker while balancing his successful career in music composition. 

The two are on a mission to bring their new musical to life, while their friends handle an array of challenges, including an unplanned pregnancy, rheumatoid arthritis, and career setbacks. In all, “Two Thousand Miles” is a relatable and touching account of love, acceptance, and friendship. 

Alyssa Williams, a Marymount Manhattan College Alumnus, has been touched by the feedback she’s received on this show. She placed her first presentation at the Viera Studio’s Santos Dantin Theater at the John & Rita Lowndes Shakespeare Center in Orlando Florida. Following this, she spoke with audience members who personally related to the show, seeing their own stories in the universal storylines of “Two Thousand Miles”.  

“It wasn’t just about chronic illness; it was about life’s shared struggles and triumphs,” she explains. Inspired by this turnout, and their interest in seeing her show on a bigger stage, Alyssa is thrilled to be on her way to New York City. 

The show’s conception was inspired by Alyssa Williams’ own struggles with rheumatoid arthritis for the past 16 years. Williams channels her own personal struggles through the character of Davis, including a touchingly authentic plot point involving the choice to leave college in response to struggling with chronic illness. The show also includes Music & Lyrics by Hans Zanger, Additional Material to Book and Lyrics by Jaclyn Nash, and Additional Music by Taylor Guttadauro. 

Alyssa shared with us that she has learned the truest form of storytelling is based on openness and vulnerability. By combining her truthful storylines with her undeniable creative talent, she has created a show that is sure to touch any heart. Ms. Williams is also acutely aware of the power of music and intentionally uses lyrics to fill in where words fail. 

Alyssa Williams has found a way to deliver this intricate storyline in a way that will leave an effortlessly lasting effect on her audience members. Don’t miss your chance to preview this amazing upcoming show at her special industry viewing, on March 15th, 2024!