Kait Kerrigan

Kait Kerrigan is an American playwright, lyricist, and librettist celebrated for her emotionally resonant storytelling and innovative contributions to contemporary musical theatre. Originally from Kingston, Pennsylvania, Kerrigan discovered her passion for theatre and writing at an early age. She studied English at Barnard College, where she honed her craft as both a dramatist and lyricist, before continuing her studies in New York City’s vibrant theatre community. Her early work reflected a strong literary sensibility, combining sharp dialogue with a deep empathy for her characters.

Kerrigan is best known for her long-standing creative partnership with composer Brian Lowdermilk. Together, the duo—known as Kerrigan-Lowdermilk—has built a devoted following for their heartfelt and contemporary musical works. Their projects include The Mad Ones (formerly The Unauthorized Autobiography of Samantha Brown), a coming-of-age musical that explores identity, memory, and choice through an inventive narrative structure and an indie-pop score. Other notable collaborations include Henry and Mudge, an Off-Broadway family musical based on the popular children’s books, and Republic, a reimagining of Shakespeare’s Henry IV set in Northern Ireland.

In addition to her musical theatre work, Kerrigan has established herself as a playwright with a distinctive voice. Her plays, such as Imaginary Love, Transit, and Disaster Relief, showcase her gift for exploring personal and societal change through intimate, character-driven stories. Her writing often centers on women’s experiences, generational dynamics, and the tension between aspiration and reality. Kerrigan’s nuanced understanding of character psychology and her lyrical use of language have earned her recognition from organizations such as the Dramatists Guild and ASCAP.

Throughout her career, Kait Kerrigan has been committed to expanding opportunities for women and emerging voices in theatre. She has taught writing workshops, mentored young artists, and advocated for gender equity in the arts. Her songs and musicals continue to be performed worldwide, inspiring a new generation of performers and writers. With her blend of literary sophistication, emotional authenticity, and musical innovation, Kerrigan remains one of the most influential and respected writers shaping the landscape of 21st-century musical theatre.