Local Author Turns Leadership Lessons Into Children’s Musical
Park City author Larry Gilbert debuted Flo the Quokka, a children’s book that began as a leadership and business guide and evolved into a philosophical story about curiosity and inner discovery. Local musician Mary Beth Maziarz adapted the book into songs and a stage musical, Flo the Show, which opened at the Egyptian Theatre on December 2, 2025, offering new cultural programming and commercial opportunities for Summit County.
Larry Gilbert brought a different kind of debut to Park City this week when Flo the Quokka, a children’s book born from his work in experiential retail and leadership consulting, arrived on shelves and on stage. The book traces a transformation from a business oriented guide into a philosophical tale that centers on a curious quokka who asks questions and explores inner discovery. That narrative resonated with local creative Mary Beth Maziarz, who set the themes to music and produced Flo the Show at the Egyptian Theatre on December 2, 2025.
The theatrical opening placed the book in a community setting where families, schools and cultural patrons converge. Gilbert’s background in experiential retail informed the project’s emphasis on interaction and merchandising at events. The combination of a story rooted in curiosity and a live musical adaptation created multiple points of engagement, from book sales to performances and book signings in town after the premiere.
For Summit County the project matters because it illustrates how locally produced cultural work can generate foot traffic for downtown venues, support performing artists and create ancillary retail activity. A children’s title that doubles as a stage property can extend revenue streams beyond a single retail purchase. Events at the Egyptian Theatre drew local audiences on opening night and provided a platform for family friendly programming during an otherwise busy winter season.
The collaboration also highlights a pathway for professionals with business backgrounds to enter cultural production. Gilbert leveraged professional experience in customer experience design into storytelling that speaks to both adults and children. Maziarz translated that story into music and stagecraft, demonstrating how creative adaptations can broaden the reach of a local author.
The book is available through local bookstores and at theatrical events, and the musical debuted at the Egyptian Theatre on December 2, 2025. For ticketing, signing dates and performance schedules, contact the Egyptian Theatre box office or visit venue and author event pages for the most current information.
