Written by Anna Olson
Wicked: Part 1, starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, made waves as a box office hit! Whether it be as a movie trailer seen on a commercial, a reel on social media, or singing your heart out in the movie theater, you are now probably familiar with the anthem “Defying Gravity” from the mind of Stephen Schwartz.
Schwartz is a composer and lyricist! He has contributed lyrics to films such as: Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Prince of Egypt, and Enchanted along with its sequel, Disenchanted. And his musicals include Godspell (1971), Pippin (1972), and trending Wicked (2003).
Throughout his career, Schwartz has been awarded three Oscars, three Grammys, and one Golden Globe! He has also received six Tony nominations. As of April 2008, Schwartz received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He has also been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and American Theater Hall of Fame, and has received an Honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree from Carnegie Mellon University.
In March, ASPI will have performances of Schwartz’s very own Godspell! Music Director Leah Tomeseck offers insight into Schwartz’s work in this unifying musical: She loves the thoughtfulness and sensitivity Stephen Schwartz brought to the table with his composing. The music for this show is very impassioned and provides joyful scenes as well as heavy ones. She references “By My Side” and the “Finale” as channels for powerful emotions, and songs “We Beseech Thee” and “Light of the World” as bringing an element of fun and lifting the mood. Both sadness and playfulness are big themes with Godspell!
Purchase your tickets NOW! Showtimes are March 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, and 22 at 7pm and March 16 and 23 at 1pm. For more information please visit https://abramsspotlightproductions.com/ and call the Box Office with any questions, 920-826-5852.