Stephen Schwartz Headshot

Stephen Schwartz

Also Credited As: Steve Schwartz

Birth Place: New York, NY, USA

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Stephen Schwartz BIO

Authorized Biography: Defying Gravity: The Creative Career of Stephen Schwartz, from Godspell to Wicked (Applause Theatre and Cinema Books, by Carol de Giere) www.DefyingGravityTheBook.com


Stephen Schwartz was born in New York City on March 6, 1948. He studied piano and composition at the Juilliard School of Music while in high school and graduated from Carnegie Mellon University in 1968 with a B.F.A. in Drama. Upon coming back to live in New York City, he went to work as a producer for RCA Records, but shortly thereafter began to work in the Broadway theatre.
His first major credit was the title song for the play BUTTERFLIES ARE FREE; the song was eventually used in the movie version as well.
In 1971, he wrote the music and new lyrics for GODSPELL, for which he won several awards including two Grammys. This was followed by the English texts, in collaboration with Leonard Bernstein, for Bernstein's MASS, which opened the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. The following year, he wrote the music and lyrics for PIPPIN and two years later, THE MAGIC SHOW. At one point, GODSPELL, PIPPIN, and THE MAGIC SHOW were all running on Broadway simultaneously.
He next wrote the music and lyrics for THE BAKER'S WIFE, followed by a musical version of Studs Terkel's WORKING, to which he contributed four songs, and which he also adapted and directed, winning the Drama Desk Award as best director. He also co-directed the television production, which was presented as part of the PBS "American Playhouse" series.
Next came songs for a one-act musical for children, CAPTAIN LOUIE, and a children's book, THE PERFECT PEACH. He then wrote music for three of the songs in the Off-Broadway revue, PERSONALS, lyrics to Charles Strouse's music for RAGS, and music and lyrics for CHILDREN OF EDEN.
He then began working in film, collaborating with composer Alan Menken on the scores for the Disney animated features POCAHONTAS, for which he received two Academy Awards and another Grammy, and THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME. He also provided songs for DreamWorks' first animated feature, THE PRINCE OF EGYPT, for which he won another Academy Award for the song "When You Believe".
Mr. Schwartz provided music and lyrics for the original television musical, GEPPETTO, seen on The Wonderful World of Disney. Recently, he released two CDs on which he sings new songs, entitled RELUCTANT PILGRIM and UNCHARTED TERRITORY.
Mr. Schwartz's most recent musical, WICKED, opened in the fall of 2003 and is currently running on Broadway.
Under the auspices of the ASCAP Foundation, he runs musical theatre workshops in New York and Los Angeles, and serves on the ASCAP board; he is also a member of the Council of the Dramatists' Guild.

Stephen Schwartz Photos

Stephen Schwartz STAGE CREDITS

[Off-Off-Broadway]
Original Off-Off-Broadway Production, 1976
Performer

Stephen Schwartz Productions

 
[Off-Broadway, 2022]
Writer
 
[Off-Broadway, 2017]
Original Music
 
[San Diego, CA (Regional), 2014]
Lyrics
 
[US Tour, 2014]
Music and Lyrics
 
[Off-Broadway, 2000]
Additional Material
 
[Broadway, 1978]
Director
 
[West End, 1972]
Musical Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1971]
Musical Director
Musical Director
 
[Regional (US), 1970]
Musical Director

Writing

Music and Lyrics
Lyricist
Composer
Composer/Lyricist
Composer/Lyricist
Lyricist
Lyricist
Composer
Composer
Composer/Lyricist
Composer/Lyricist
Composer/Lyricist
Lyricist
Composer
Composer/Lyricist
Composer
Lyricist
Composer/Lyricist
Lyricist
Composer/Lyricist
Composer
Composer/Lyricist
Bookwriter
Composer
Composer
Lyricist
Composer
Lyricist
Lyricist
Composer/Lyricist
Composer/Lyricist
Lyricist
Composer
Lyricist
Composer
Adaptation

Stephen Schwartz Movies

Pocahontas
[ 1995 ] songs
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
[ 1996 ] songs
The Prince of Egypt
[ 1998 ] original songs
Enchanted
[ 2007 ] songs
tick, tick... BOOM!
[ 2021 ] Aspiring Composer and Lyricist #17
Disenchanted
[ 2022 ] lyricist
Wicked
[ 2024 ] music and lyrics by

Stephen Schwartz Awards and Nominations


winner
Tony Awards - 2015 - Isabelle Stevenson Award

Stephen Schwartz


winner
Olivier Awards - 2010 - The Audience Award for Most Popular Show

Stephen Schwartz, Wicked


winner
BroadwayWorld Awards - 2004 - Best Original Score

Stephen Schwartz, Wicked


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2004 - Outstanding Music

Stephen Schwartz, Wicked

Tony Awards - 2004 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Stephen Schwartz, Wicked


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2003 - Outstanding Lyrics

Stephen Schwartz, Wicked

Olivier Awards - 1990 - Musical of the Year

Stephen Schwartz, The Baker's Wife

Tony Awards - 1987 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Stephen Schwartz, Rags

Drama Desk Awards - 1978 - Outstanding Director - Musical

Stephen Schwartz, Working

Tony Awards - 1978 - Best Book of a Musical

Stephen Schwartz, Working

Tony Awards - 1978 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Stephen Schwartz, Working

Tony Awards - 1977 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Stephen Schwartz, Godspell

New York Drama Critics Circle Awards - 1973 - Best Musical

Stephen Schwartz, Pippin

Tony Awards - 1973 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Stephen Schwartz, Pippin


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1971 - Most Promising Composer

Stephen Schwartz, Godspell

Stephen Schwartz Videos

Stephen Schwartz News


Jon M. Chu Says Cynthia Erivo 'Blew Us Away' on Set of WICKED Film


In a new interview with Variety, Wicked director Jon M. Chu discussed his first meeting with Cynthia Erivo and their time together on the set of the highly anticipated movie. He highlighted the magic of Erivo's performance in the film, specifically citing the powerful anthem Defying Gravity.

WICKED Adds Additional Performances in Brisbane


Due to enormous demand, four additional weeks of the musical phenomenon WICKED have been released for the Brisbane season up until 17 November, with general public tickets from 10 May.  

BrightSide Theatre Announces 2024-25 Season SPELLS AND SUPERSTITIONS With Two Musicals And Two Plays


BrightSide Theatre reveals its 2024-25 season, 'Spells and Superstitions,' featuring two plays and two musicals including DRACULA, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM, and PIPPIN.

Video: Watch Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Sing THE PRINCE OF EGYPT at the Met Gala


At the close of the 2024 Met Gala, pop star Ariana Grande and Tony Award-winner Cynthia Erivo joined the stage together to perform a powerful rendition of When You Believe from the animated film The Prince of Egypt. Watch the performance here!

Initial Cast Set For Revival of THE BAKER'S WIFE at the Menier Chocolate Factory; Lucie Jones, Clive Rowe, and More!


The Menier Chocolate Factory has announced initial casting for The Baker's Wife – with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by Joseph Stein. Learn more about the cast here!

Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo Talk WICKED At the 2024 Met Gala


Tony Award-winner Cynthia Erivo and pop star Ariana Grande, the stars of the upcoming Wicked film adaptation, are in attendance at tonight's Met Gala. While climbing the iconic steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the two stopped for a chat about their experiences working on the high-profile adaptation. 

TROLLS, JR to be Presented at the JCC Metrowest in West Orange


Experience the world premiere of TROLLS, JR, a musical adventure featuring local talent at , NJ. Learn how to purchase tickets!

Exclusive: Oh My Pod U Guys-  Getting WICKED with Dan Micciche


I am joined by seasoned Bway performer, music director, conductor, and vocal coach, Dan Micciche! Dan holds the distinction of being the youngest person to ever play the role of Mary Sunshine in Chicago at the age of 22. We talk all about his amazing 6 years with the Broadway, touring, and international companies of Chicago, and what it means to be part of such an iconic show.

Selda Sahin and Derek Gregor to Present WINE AND SING at The Green Room 42


THE GREEN ROOM 42 will present celebrated songwriters Selda Sahin and Derek Gregor in their special evening “Wine and Sing”. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.

Leslie Uggams And Liz Callaway Join The Honorary Board Of The York Theatre Company


The York Theatre Company has announced that Broadway leading ladies Leslie Uggams and Liz Callaway have been added to the starry list of the company's Honorary Board of Directors.

Photos: Go Inside the PIPPIN 50th Anniversary Concert with Alex Newell and More


Just yesterday, Tony Award-winning Broadway star of Shucked, Grammy nominated Alex Newell, led the 50th anniversary concert production of PIPPIN. Check out photos from the special night!

Review: PIPPIN - 50TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT, Theatre Royal Drury Lane


Stephen Schwartz's 70s musical Pippin makes a triumphant return with a note perfect casting at Drury Lane's concert version, with Fosse-inspired choreography and costumes given a disco pride vibe. Alex Newell's vocals do not disappoint, Jac Yarrow is a fine lead, while Patricia Hodge is a poignant Berthe.

Review: THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME at Lincoln Theatre


Brilliant acting mixed in with a powder keg of singing, dancing, and orchestration stuns its audience.

Kate Baldwin, Julie Reiber, and More Will Perform THE SONGS OF OLIVER HOUSER at 54 Below


54 Below will present The Songs of Oliver Houser on May 1, 2024 at 9:30pm, a one-night-only concert by one of musical theatre’s most compelling new voices.

Revival of Stephen Schwartz and Joseph Stein's THE BAKER'S WIFE Opens at Menier Chocolate Factory in July


Discover the major revival of THE BAKER'S WIFE, a classic by Stephen Schwartz and Joseph Stein, announced by the Menier Chocolate Factory. Don't miss this theatrical masterpiece.

Marilyn Maye, Lorna Luft, Melissa Errico and More Take the Stage Next Month at 54 Below


Get the latest scoop on the upcoming performances at 54 Below. From Broadway veterans to rising stars, experience the magic of live entertainment this coming month.

Video: WICKED Composer Stephen Schwartz Joins Melissa Errico To Perform 'For Good'


Broadway icon Stephen Schwartz, the composer behind the blockbuster hit Wicked, hit the stage with songstress Melissa Errico for a very special performance at 54 Below.

Baayork Lee & More Join Pittsburgh CLO 2024 Summer of Musicals


Pittsburgh CLO has unveiled the Creative Teams for the 2024 Summer of Musicals. See the productions and learn how to purchase tickets.

WICKED Becomes 10th Longest-Running West End Show in British History


WICKED, the West End stage musical phenomenon that tells the incredible untold story of the Witches of Oz, will play its 6,762nd performance, becoming the 10th longest-running West End stage production in British history.

Stephen Schwartz FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many shows has Stephen Schwartz written?

Stephen Schwartz has written 23 shows including An Evening with Stephen Schwartz (Composer/Lyricist), Personals (Composer), Butterflies Are Free (Composer/Lyricist), Godspell (Composer), Mass (Bookwriter), Pippin (Composer), The Magic Show (Composer/Lyricist), The Baker's Wife (Composer/Lyricist), Working (Adaptation), Endless Delights (Composer/Lyricist), Magic to Do (Composer/Lyricist), A...My Name Is Alice (Material), Rags (Lyricist), Children of Eden (Composer/Lyricist), Rags:Children of the Wind (Lyricist), Fosse (Lyricist), Wicked (Composer), Captain Louie (Composer/Lyricist), Reluctant Pilgrim (Composer/Lyricist), Snapshots (Composer/Lyricist), Disney's Geppetto and Son (Composer/Lyricist), Having It Almost (Composer/Lyricist), Prince of Egypt (Music and Lyrics).

What awards has Stephen Schwartz been nominated for?

Stephen Schwartz has been nominated for various awards, including the Isabelle Stevenson Award at the Tony Awards, The Audience Award for Most Popular Show at the Olivier Awards for "Wicked," Best Original Score at the BroadwayWorld Awards for "Wicked," Outstanding Music at the Drama Desk Awards for "Wicked," Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre at the Tony Awards for "Wicked," Outstanding Lyrics at the Drama Desk Awards for "Wicked," Musical of the Year at the Olivier Awards for "The Baker's Wife," Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre at the Tony Awards for "Rags," Outstanding Director - Musical at the Drama Desk Awards for "Working," Best Book of a Musical at the Tony Awards for "Working," Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre at the Tony Awards for "Working," Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre at the Tony Awards for "Godspell," Best Musical at the New York Drama Critics Circle Awards for "Pippin," Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre at the Tony Awards for "Pippin," and Most Promising Composer at the Drama Desk Awards for "Godspell."

What awards has Stephen Schwartz won?

Stephen Schwartz has won the Isabelle Stevenson Award at the Tony Awards, the Audience Award for Most Popular Show at the Olivier Awards for Wicked, Best Original Score at the BroadwayWorld Awards for Wicked, Outstanding Music at the Drama Desk Awards for Wicked, Outstanding Lyrics at the Drama Desk Awards for Wicked, and Most Promising Composer at the Drama Desk Awards for Godspell.

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