World War I Musical Memoir “The Story of a Rose” to Premiere at the Kennedy Center in May 2025

Broadway star Melissa Errico creates and stars in new performance bringing insight to the lives of the Doughboys of World War I

Inspired by the story of her own family’s journey during World War I, Broadway star Melissa Errico has created a new musical memoir about that era in American life entitled, “The Story of a Rose.” The musical performance series, to benefit the Doughboy Foundation, is set to debut on May 7, 2025, at the Terrace Theatre at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. and tickets are now on sale.

Nominated for a Tony Award for her role in the musical “Amour” as well as performing on Broadway in shows such as “My Fair Lady” as Eliza Doolittle, Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas,” and Cole Porter’s “High Society,” Errico is also a recording artist and contributing writer for the New York Times.

Her musical memoir tells the story of her great Aunt Rose and her grandmother who came to the United States from Italy by boat during World War I and immediately took up work as seamstresses making uniforms for the war. “The Story of a Rose” is comprised of early jazz ragtime music and elegant storytelling, as Errico brings together love letters, stories of friendship, and authentic songs to bring the World War I era to life.

“I feel a deep connection to Rose and her generation,” said Errico. “She may not have fought in the trenches, but her needle and thread were her tools of war. The care and precision she put into each uniform remind me that every stitch was a quiet, yet powerful contribution to the lives of the individuals immersed in the world-changing events of 1917 and 1918.”

The performance series will feature a blend of original arrangements and archival images, giving audiences a fully immersive experience of life during World War I. The Doughboy Foundation, known for its dedication to preserving the legacy of World War I and remembering its service members, supports this performance series as an opportunity to broaden the historical narrative while generating support for all its programs.

“Melissa’s compelling interpretive ability is key to conveying this story,” said Dan Dayton, Chairman, Doughboy Foundation. “Her personal connection to this history, combined with her interpretive genius will create an unforgettable experience. By exploring the stories of women like Rose, we will expand the understanding of World War I beyond the battlefield and remember the many ways Americans served their country”.

Melissa Errico performs at the Walmart Wrap Party following the First Illumination of “A Soldier’s Journey” at the National World War I Memorial on Friday, September 13th, 2024 in Washington . (Joy Asico-Smith / Asico Photo)

“The Story of a Rose” will be performed at select venues worldwide, with proceeds from the series benefiting the Doughboy Foundation’s stewardship of the National World War I Memorial including its educational and commemorative initiatives. Further information on upcoming events at the World War I Memorial can be found here: https://doughboy.org/

The May 7, 2025 performance of “The Story of a Rose” is an external rental presented in coordination with the Kennedy Center Campus Rentals Office and is not produced by the Kennedy Center.

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