THE FIRST STAGE is an exciting new initiative to jumpstart the development of new works for the stage by connecting writers with performers, musicians, and audiences. These dynamic concerts invite you up close as songwriting, theatre, and music combine to create something brand new, and you get the first look!
ABOUT JOHNNY & THE DEVIL'S BOX
Johnny Baker believes he is the greatest fiddler of all time, and he aims to prove it. His boasting attracts the attention of another fiddler - The Devil himself - and strikes a match that spells destruction for all Johnny holds dear. With fame and fortune tempting his pride at every turn, Johnny must find the courage and wisdom to win a battle of the bows without losing sight of what really matters: community, love, and the music that calls him home. All before the devil takes his due… Set to a rollicking Americana score, this jubilant new musical will stir your soul and start your feet to stompin'!
Written by Drama Desk Award-nominated writer and composer J Douglas Waterbury-Tieman, JOHNNY & the DEVIL'S BOX was awarded the First Night Award for its premiere at the Cumberland County Playhouse in 2022. The piece has been developed with support from The Drama League, Goodspeed Musicals, the Johnny Mercer Foundation, and NAMT's Frank Young Fund.
ABOUT OIL & WHISKEY
'The Last Five Years' meets Nashville Honky Tonk; Oil & Whiskey is a country rock musical dramedy about two ex-lovers who meet for a drink and relive their entire relationship over a couple of rounds of whiskey. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and by the end, you'll remember why: you don't text your ex. Oil & Whiskey debuted at the NYC Fringe Festival in 2025, winning the 'Sold-Out Award'.
Oil & Whiskey is the debut musical for producer, musician, and songwriter Kit Nolan. The Nashville (Franklin) based multi-instrumentalist has toured the world performing for millions as the Music Director for Lindsey Stirling, and as a session musician for Robbie Williams and One Direction. He is joined by award-winning playwright and storyteller Dax Wiley. Juliet Perel and Cornelius Versa will join the cast in starring roles for Zelda and Teddy.
Oil & Whiskey has a robust tour schedule planned for 2026: NYC in July-August, The Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August, and The Old Red Lion Theatre, an Off West End Pub Theatre, in London this September.
ABOUT NEW MUSICAL THEATRE NASHVILLE
New Musical Theatre Nashville (NMTN) is a collective of writers that fosters the creation of new works, reimagining the possibilities of an American art form through meaningful collaboration to connect art with audiences in Music City.
Through connection, writers round concerts and now The First Stage at Analog with ASCAP, NMTN is forging a development pipeline here in Nashville toward the creation of original and dynamic new works of musical theatre. Our goal is to launch a whole host of new musicals into existence by connecting writers with performers, musicians, audiences, and ultimately producers that can take them to their next stage of development.
Follow us at: @new_musicals_nashville
ABOUT ASCAP
Founded and governed by music creators, ASCAP is a performing rights organization (PRO) of more than 1.1 million songwriters, composers, and music publishers. ASCAP, the only U.S. PRO that operates on a not-for-profit basis, puts music creators first by advocating for their rights, driving innovation, building community, and providing resources to support members throughout their careers.
Parking for Analog ticket holders is just $10 flat in our on-site garage—available exclusively for guests attending shows at Analog at Hutton Hotel. QR code located inside the venue to scan for a discount.
Before the lights dim and the first note hits, indulge in an evening of elevated dining at Evelyn's, where timeless American flavors meet a touch of Southern sophistication. As an Analog ticket holder, enjoy 15% off your meal—because a night of exceptional music deserves an equally refined prelude.
