A young and loved teacher, Maggie, learns her father is dying, returns home, and becomes an unexpected prey for her deranged stepmother.
A modern-day faith base take on Snow White.
Family drama/mystery musical.
Marlin Awards in St. Maarten - Best Song Contest 2022. Lili Forbes stated:
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I won! My first award as a solo vocalist.
I had to do a double take several times on line to let it sink in that Never Bitter Won in the category of Outstanding Contemporary Vocal Performance-Female. This is the soundtrack to the Musical " Maggie Never Bitter" It was Written by a local playwright Theresa Ann James Shotwell who commissioned me to compose the music. My team and I are over the moon. The Musical just debuted in Tallahassee as a staged reading at FAMU Essential Theatre Black Box, I'm excited to see where the Playwright takes it next. I don't own the rights to the song, so I will not be posting it online, I composed the music and coproduced the track with Jacki Waller Barineauand Ezekiel Haynes. Thank you to Kevin Minister K Harrisand the Marlin Awards …
Seeking 13 Singers and Actors
Ages 16-80
MARCH 26, 2022 12:30-4:00PM
PLEASE SHARE YOUR TALENTS
LEON COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
Taj Shotwell, Executive Producer
Essential Theatrical Associates, Co-Producer
FOR SCREENPLAY OR STAGE MANUSCRIPT
CONTACT
TAJ SHOTWELL
or text at
1 850-321-1991
MAGGIE: NEVER BITTER
Best Musical Screenplay Award - IFFF Raleigh Studios Hollywood, CA 2016
At TAJ Shotwell Productions, LLC, our vision is to be the leading provider of performing arts education and entertainment in the region.
We offer a wide range of programs including dance, theater, music, and more for students of all ages and skill levels.
Our instructors are highly trained professionals with years of experience in their respective fields, dedicated to helping our students succeed.
Genre: Modern Family and Faith Drama / Mystery / Romance / Musical
A beautiful young teacher returns home when her father falls ill, only to become the target of her jealous, mentally unstable stepmother. As her faith is tested and secrets unfold, Maggie discovers the healing power of love, forgiveness, and unexpected friendship.
A modern-day fairy tale rooted in faith, betrayal, romance, and redemption, MAGGIE: NEVER BITTER is a genre-blending drama enriched with original songs that bring depth and emotion to every scene. Whether navigating the joys of teaching, the pain of loss, or the threat of betrayal, Maggie clings to her father's life mantra: "Never Bitter." In this deeply heartfelt story, TAJ Shotwell blends the realism of today’s social challenges with timeless lessons on grace, healing, and inner strength.
Maggie Brown, a cherished elementary school teacher and sole heir to her father’s fortune, is heartbroken to learn of his terminal illness. Her return home is meant to bring comfort, but instead, she’s met with hostility from her stepmother, Jennifer, a former model with a dangerous past and an even darker agenda.
As Jennifer’s jealousy spirals into madness, she devises schemes that put Maggie’s life in danger. Amid her grief, Maggie finds comfort in Douglass—a kind soul who gently restores her faith in love and life. But before they can build a future together, Maggie is abducted and left for dead—only to be rescued by the Dunkers, a tight-knit group of rural athletes who offer protection, wisdom, and a sense of belonging.
As Douglass searches desperately for Maggie, he uncovers chilling truths about Jennifer’s past. Meanwhile, Maggie's strength and faith are pushed to their limits as Jennifer reappears for a final confrontation. Can Maggie survive the trauma, forgive the unforgivable, and honor her father's dying wish to stay Never Bitter?
This powerful novella is framed with sixteen original songs, available as lyrics, sheet music, and full soundtracks, making it a musical reading experience unlike any other.
Dr. Taj Shotwell is a passionate advocate for education and the arts. As an accomplished author, educator, and producer, she founded Taj Shotwell Productions to bring stories of resilience, purpose, and empowerment to life. Her work bridges the gap between creativity and education, offering opportunities to those whose voices often go unheard.
Through her leadership at BAAI (Business of Art Academy International), Dr. Shotwell champions a unique educational model that blends performing arts with practical business skills—helping students build confidence, creativity, and real-world readiness. Her vision is clear: to equip the next generation to lead with both heart and skill.
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