Book and Additional Lyrics by Lauren Kahane Music by Tommy Barbarella Lyrics by Mariella ElmTommy gives up his rock star life to be around for his family - including his daughter Mariella, who lives with a rare disability. Life happens, and by the time Mariella makes the difficult transition into middle school, Tommy has become a stay-at-home dad, forced to do his music around his family’s chaotic schedule. Tommy adores Mariella, and more than anything, wants her to be happy. But when Mariella isn't cast in the school musical and decides she and Tommy should write their own musical, he's torn. A musical?! Were word to get out, it would badly tarnish Tommy’s street cred in the music industry. Even worse, it could expose his most closely guarded secret. But how can he say no? Reluctantly, Tommy agrees - on the condition that their musical remain private. And then the school finds out about it and wants to perform it. Publicly. Based on the true story of former Prince keyboardist Tommy Barbarella and his daughter, Mariella, The Girl Who Cried Different is the story of a man with a secret fear and a girl with a hidden disability that reminds us that you never know what others carry, and therefore, must always be kind.

Special Thanks to Donors Bruce and Jean Johnson