News:
Arrival Arts Initiative Announces Soft Launch from Studio Origin
New York, NY — [June 9th, 2025] — The Arrival Arts Initiative, a new creative venture dedicated to the development of original work in music, theater, and film, has entered its soft launch phase.
Founded by Tony Award-winning orchestrator and producer Doug Besterman, and writer‑performer Alida Michal, Arrival Arts Initiative was created to support artists at the earliest, most vulnerable stages of creation—particularly those working at the intersection of music and narrative. The initiative centers sound not as an accessory, but as a primary engine of storytelling, and is committed to fostering emotionally resonant, sonically rich work that will shape the next generation of the performing arts.
While plans are in motion for a permanent multi-use facility, the organization has begun operating from its current workspace—now officially named Studio Origin. This intimate, acoustically treated studio is serving as a flexible base for early programming and artist-driven experimentation.
“This is a space I’ve long dreamed of creating,” says Besterman. “Music is often the last piece of a project to be fully developed—but for so many of us, it’s where the work begins. Arrival is about honoring that impulse, giving composers, sound designers, and creators the time and tools they need to build something lasting.”
During the soft launch phase, Arrival is focusing on musical development: demo production, collaborative arrangement, recording sessions, and sound-focused exploration with a select group of artists and collaborators. Larger programming, residencies, and public offerings will follow in the next phase as the organization grows toward its long-term vision.
Those interested in learning more, collaborating, or supporting the initiative are encouraged to visit arrivalartsinitiative.org.
About Arrival Arts Initiative
Arrival Arts Initiative is a creative space devoted to the development of original work in music, theater, and film. Founded by artists, for artists, Arrival is both a sanctuary and a launchpad—a place where creators can arrive fully into their voices, processes, and possibilities. At its heart is Studio Origin, a dedicated sound lab for projects that begin with music and grow outward.