Joshua Salzman

Joshua Salzman is an American musical theatre composer best known for his collaborative work with lyricist Ryan Cunningham. Together, they form a dynamic writing duo that has produced original, contemporary musicals celebrated for their wit, honesty, and emotional depth. Salzman is part of a younger generation of musical theatre writers helping to redefine the genre in the 21st century.

One of Salzman’s best-known works is I Love You Because, a modern romantic comedy set in New York City. The show, inspired by Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, premiered Off-Broadway in 2006 and was praised for its clever lyrics and tuneful, character-driven score. It has since been produced internationally and remains popular with university and regional theatres.

Salzman and Cunningham have also created Next Thing You Know, a chamber musical about young adults navigating life and relationships, and Michael Collins, a more dramatic musical based on the life of the Irish revolutionary. Their work is characterized by its ability to blend humor, emotional realism, and contemporary themes.

In addition to his composing work, Salzman is involved in education and development of new musical theatre. He is a graduate of the NYU Tisch Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program, where he continues to contribute to the cultivation of new talent in the field.

Though still mid-career, Joshua Salzman has already made a strong impression on the modern musical landscape, crafting intimate, relatable stories with a fresh musical voice.