Maria Isabella Andreoli and EmmaLee Kidwell Will Release Single
The musical duo will release their new song To Be A Butterfly on October 1.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Children’s Theater
Maria Isabella Andreoli and EmmaLee Kidwell will release their new single, To Be A Butterfly, on October 1. The track is the first single from the concept album for the folk musical The Waiting.
Why it matters
The release builds momentum for the folk musical set in rural Vermont, which previously premiered at the Cohoes Music Hall in 2025. The songwriters are also recipients of the ASCAP Lucille and Jack Yellen Award.
The single To Be A Butterfly was recognized as a finalist for the Write Out Loud competition. This release serves as the inaugural single from the concept album for the musical The Waiting.
The players
Maria Isabella Andreoli
She is a songwriter and instrumentalist who received the ASCAP Lucille and Jack Yellen Award.
EmmaLee Kidwell
She is a songwriter and performer who was recognized with the ASCAP Lucille and Jack Yellen Award.
Sahil Ansari
He is a music producer and arranger who worked on the production of the new single.
Mary Kate Morrisey
She is a performer who previously showcased the song at the 54 Below venue.
The details
The track features performances by instrumentalists including Felix Herbst, Cole Kidwell, Michael Lepore, Christof Krumenacker, and Grant Braider. Sahil Ansari provided the production and arrangements for the recording, which follows a prior performance of the song by Mary Kate Morrisey at 54 Below.
Timeline
The developmental premiere of The Waiting occurred in 2025.
The single To Be A Butterfly will be released on October 1, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The project follows a development trajectory similar to other new musical works showcased at the ASCAP Musical Theatre Workshop. This release marks a shift toward building audience awareness through concept albums prior to full theatrical runs.
Listeners will be able to access the new single on streaming platforms starting October 1. The track provides an early preview of the music from the upcoming rural Vermont-themed folk musical.
The takeaway
The release of a concept album single allows songwriters to test public interest and build a fanbase before a full musical production. Supporters of new theater can look for these digital drops as indicators of future stage development.
Further reading
Explore more upcoming works in the Children’s Theater section.
