Stephanie Henry is a composer, pianist, songwriter, and musical-theatre artist whose work bridges classical music and contemporary influences, including R&B, rock, pop, and musical theatre. Drawing on her classical training and diverse musical influences, she creates original works that explore identity, belonging, transformation, and the complexities of finding one’s voice. Her storytelling often centers on outsiders and individuals navigating the boundaries imposed by society, celebrating the courage to claim one’s own identity.
Stephanie is the creator of the original musicals Willow Storm and the Lightning Bolts, inspired by 1980s glam rock and the Minneapolis Sound, and Harlem’s Mozart, a new musical set in 1940s New York exploring the life of a mixed-race piano prodigy. She is also the creator and composer of The Girl Who Followed Fireflies, an original piano and storytelling performance that invites audiences of all ages to explore imagination, creativity, and their own inner light.
Her work has been presented through Park Square Theatre’s LAB Series, and she was selected to compose a piece for White Snake Projects’ Sing Out Strong: Decolonized Voices in 2020. She was also commissioned to write an opera short for Minnesota Opera’s MNiatures. Her honors include Minnesota State Arts Board and East Central Regional Arts Council grants, the Notesbusters competition award, and selection as a Park Square LAB Series Artist. She participated in the 2026 Drama Club Camp Musical Theatre Writer’s Residency and has received mentorship from Tony Award-winning music director and orchestrator Stephen Oremus and musical-theatre artist Daryll Archibald.
Stephanie studied music at St. Olaf College and earned her master’s degree from Hamline University. In addition to composing and performing, she maintains a private piano studio, teaching students of all ages. She lives in Princeton, Minnesota, with her husband, John, and their cats.
Stephanie Henry is a fiscal year 2021 recipient of a Creative Support for Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
