Hello! I'm Jay Adana. With a passion for storytelling through music and theater, I've dedicated my career to creating meaningful artistic works that resonate with audiences. From adapting classic literature to composing original musicals, my journey has been fueled by collaboration and a love for the craft. I believe in the power of artistic expression to inspire change and connect communities. Whether working on stage or in the classroom, I aim to empower others through creativity. I'm excited about the future and the countless opportunities for artistic exploration ahead!…

Jay Adana

Hello! I'm Jay Adana. With a passion for storytelling through music and theater, I've dedicated my career to creating meaningful artistic works that resonate with audiences. From adapting classic literature to composing original musicals, my journey has been fueled by collaboration and a love for the craft. I believe in the power of artistic expression to inspire change and connect communities. Whether working on stage or in the classroom, I aim to empower others through creativity. I'm excited about the future and the countless opportunities for artistic exploration ahead!…

Available to hire

Hello! I’m Jay Adana. With a passion for storytelling through music and theater, I’ve dedicated my career to creating meaningful artistic works that resonate with audiences. From adapting classic literature to composing original musicals, my journey has been fueled by collaboration and a love for the craft.

I believe in the power of artistic expression to inspire change and connect communities. Whether working on stage or in the classroom, I aim to empower others through creativity. I’m excited about the future and the countless opportunities for artistic exploration ahead!

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Skills

Experience Level

Composition
Expert
Instrumental
Expert
Lead Vocal
Expert
Jingle
Intermediate
Logic Pro
Intermediate
Backing Vocal
Intermediate
Pitch Deck
Beginner
Squarespace
Beginner

Language

Work Experience

Teaching Artist & Guest Facilitator at University of Wisconsin–Madison
January 1, 2023 - Present
Taught and workshopped original material as part of the Office of Multicultural Arts Initiatives, engaging students in collaborative creative processes.
Vocal Instructor at School of Rock
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2025
Supported teen vocalists in developing their singing skills, emphasizing healthy techniques and joyful expression.
Adjunct Professor, Musical Theatre at New York University, Tisch School of the Arts
January 1, 2019 - Present
Taught undergraduate BFA students about musical theatre creation, performance, and lyric writing, integrating story and song.
Musical Theatre Composer/Lyricist at The Public Theater, Playwrights Horizons, New World Stages among others
January 7, 2013 - Present
Jonathan Larson, Richard Rodgers, Vivace and Next Gen Award winning musical theatre writer. Productions at New World Stages, The Public Theater, and La Jolla Playhouse to name a few. Featured by PBS and the Dramatist Magazine. Known for swampy contemporary music and insightful lyrics with an emotional punch.
Associate Producer at Strangemen & Co.
December 31, 2011 - December 31, 2017
Managed contracts, production logistics, and administrative operations for a non-profit theater company.

Education

B.F.A. at SUNY Purchase Conservatory of Theatre Arts and Film
January 11, 2030 - December 28, 2025

Qualifications

Dramatist Guild Foundation Fellowship
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2019
Jonathan Larson Grant
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2019

Industry Experience

Education, Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization
    Beloved

    Short adaptation of Toni Morrison’s “Beloved” at the Public Theater as part of the BARS Workshop founded by Daveed Diggs (Hamilton) and Rafael Casal (Loki). Directed by Carlos Lopez Estrada (Raya and the Last Dragon, Blindspotting).