Mike Pettry

Mike Pettry is a New York–based composer, lyricist, orchestrator, and musician whose creative work spans musical theatre, television, film, and interactive media. Known for his emotionally rich storytelling and stylistic versatility, Pettry has built a multifaceted career that blends original composition with collaborative production across genres. His music reflects a deep understanding of character, structure, and theatricality, making him a sought-after artist in contemporary musical storytelling.

He is best known for composing the score to The Light Princess, which premiered at the American Repertory Theater and later debuted off-Broadway at New Victory Theatre, earning critical praise. Pettry has written or co-written several original musicals, including Hardcore West Virginia, The Time Travelers Convention, World of Heroes, Things I Left on Long Island, The Last Song of Eddie Scourge, and Mechanical. His work has been recognized by the ASCAP Foundation and the Jonathan Larson Foundation, and his songwriting has been praised for its emotional depth and melodic strength.

In addition to his work as a composer and lyricist, Pettry is an accomplished orchestrator and arranger. His orchestration credits include work for the television comedy series Documentary Now!: Co-op, Netflix’s John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch, and Disney Junior’s Vampirina. He has also orchestrated musical theatre productions such as Orphie and the Book of Heroes and The Noteworthy Life of Howard Barnes, collaborating with a range of prominent composers and lyricists.

Pettry is also a seasoned performer and music director. He has played keyboards and conducted on Broadway productions including A Strange Loop, SpongeBob SquarePants, Bandstand, Finding Neverland, Godspell, and Gettin’ The Band Back Together. His Off-Broadway and regional performance credits include Faust with Randy Newman, Clinton: The Musical, The View Upstairs, FOUND, Rooms, and The Black Suits, showcasing his fluency in both creative and technical aspects of live performance.

A recipient of the Jonathan Larson Award and the ASCAP Foundation Harold Adamson Lyric Award, Mike Pettry holds an MFA in musical theatre writing from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. His career continues to evolve across mediums, combining lyrical storytelling, inventive orchestration, and a collaborative spirit. Whether composing for stage, screen, or emerging media, Pettry remains a vibrant and influential voice in the landscape of American musical arts.