A new musical inspired by one of Nina West’s most personal projects is set to debut in Columbus next year.
The You Kind of Kind: The Musical, based on West’s best-selling children’s book The You Kind of Kind, will make its world premiere on April 2, 2027 at Studio 1 inside the Riffe Center downtown. The production will run through April 23.
The show is being commissioned by Columbus Children’s Theatre under the leadership of Artistic Director Zac DelMonte and Executive Director Susan Pringle.
The musical features an original score by Caleb Damschroder, with lyrics co-written by Damschroder and West. The book was written by Eric Ulloa and West, with direction by Kevin J. Zak.
According to the production team, the musical centers on themes of individuality, empathy, and kindness, expanding on the message of West’s original children’s book through music and storytelling.
“One of the greatest joys of my career has been writing my children’s book THE YOU KIND OF KIND,” West said in a statement. “To now be creating a musical with two people I deeply love and respect, and have it be commissioned in my hometown by the Columbus Children’s Theatre, is a dream I never even imagined.”
West also said the project feels deeply connected to Columbus itself.
“This story is really about my love for this city and the kindness shown to me,” she said. “I am thrilled to see this project continue its own story here as well.”
The collaborative nature of the production is central to its development, particularly for writer Eric Ulloa, who sees the work as part of a longer tradition of stories that shape how young audiences understand the world around them.
“The cornerstones of who I am today were built by the entertainment I consumed as a kid,” Ulloa said. “Stories that taught me about the power of community, kindness, empathy, etc. To be able to be a part of this great legacy with The You Kind of Kind: The Musical is an awesome privilege that my fellow creators and I are deeply grateful for and excited to undertake.”
Composer Caleb Damschroder echoes that focus, emphasizing the way the musical translates its message into something immediate and approachable for audiences of different ages.
“The You Kind of Kind brings a message of empathy to our young audience members, as well as those who are young at heart,” Damschroder said. “Nina shows that a little thoughtfulness can go a long way, and that kindness can be cool.”
The production also reflects the broader direction of Columbus Children’s Theatre, which has been investing in new work that centers empathy, inclusion, and contemporary family experiences through original storytelling.
Casting and additional details are expected to be announced. You can stay up today by visiting columbuschildrenstheatre.org.
