Margo Lion
Birth Place: Baltimore, MD, USA
Latest News on Margo Lion:
Interview: Meet the General Managers That Keep Broadway Running, Wendy Orshan and Jeffrey M. Wilson (Jan 6, 2026)
Review: HAIRSPRAY Revivals in São Paulo with a Beautiful Message of Acceptance (Oct 15, 2024)
La Jolla Playhouse's Eric Keen-Louie Named Artistic Producing Director (Feb 7, 2024)
Interview: Meet the General Managers That Keep Broadway Running, Wendy Orshan and Jeffrey M. Wilson (Jan 6, 2026)
Review: HAIRSPRAY Revivals in São Paulo with a Beautiful Message of Acceptance (Oct 15, 2024)
La Jolla Playhouse's Eric Keen-Louie Named Artistic Producing Director (Feb 7, 2024)
BIO
Lion is best known for her role in producing Hairspray.
Originally, Lion worked in politics, but after spending three years at the University of Iowa's Playwrights Workshop where her former husband, Ted Nemeth, was a graduate student, Lion's focus turned from education to her earlier interest in theater.
Lion's cousin, MacArthur Award recipient and director/choreographer Martha Clarke, introduced Lion to Lyn Austin from whom she learned the ropes with Austin's not-for-profit company, Music-Theater Group/Lenox Arts Center.
The first musical Lion produced on Broadway was Jelly's Last Jam, based on Jelly Roll Morton and the origins of jazz.
Other notable Broadway credits include Angels in America, On the Town, Elaine Stritch at Liberty, Caroline or Change, The Wedding Singer, Catch Me If You Can, and Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune, among others.
Lion was an adjunct professor and a member of the Dean's Council at the NYU Tisch School for the Arts. She served on the Board of Directors of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids and on the advisory boards of the Baltimore Young Women's Leadership School, and The Alliance for Inclusion in the Arts, PUBLICOLOR.
In 2009 Margo Lion was selected by President Barack Obama to co-chair the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities.
Lion's productions have garnered 20 Tony Awards, 4 Olivier Awards and 1 Pulitzer Prize. Following the opening of Hairspray, she was awarded the key to the city of Baltimore by then Mayor, Martin O'Malley.
Photos
Hal Luftig, Jerry Mitchell, Marc Shaiman, Scott Whittman, Terrence McNally, Margo Lion, Jack O'Brien attending Meet & Greet for the New Broadway Musical 'Catch Me If You Can' at the 42ns Street Rehearsal Studios in New York City.
Date:
01/25/2011
From: Photo Coverage: Introducing CATCH ME IF YOU CAN - Complete Coverage!
Productions
Awards and Nominations
Tony Awards - 2011 - Best Musical
Margo Lion, Catch Me If You Can
Tony Awards - 2007 - Best Play
Margo Lion, Radio Golf
Tony Awards - 2006 - Best Musical
Margo Lion, The Wedding Singer
Tony Awards - 2004 - Best Musical
Margo Lion, Caroline, or Change
winner
Tony Awards - 2003 - Best Musical
Margo Lion, Hairspray
Tony Awards - 2002 - Best Revival of a Play
Margo Lion, The Crucible
winner
Tony Awards - 2002 - Best Special Theatrical Event
Margo Lion, Elaine Stritch at Liberty
winner
The Lortels - 2001 - Unique Theatrical Experience
Margo Lion, Mnemonic
Tony Awards - 1996 - Best Play
Margo Lion, Seven Guitars
winner
Tony Awards - 1994 - Best Play
Margo Lion, Angels in America: Perestroika
winner
Tony Awards - 1993 - Best Play
Margo Lion, Angels in America: Millennium Approaches
Tony Awards - 1992 - Best Musical
Margo Lion, Jelly's Last Jam
Videos
VIDEO: The Schuyler Sisters Welcome the DNC to HAMILTON; Obama Returns Tonight!
by BWW News Desk - 2015-11-02 17:50:26
TV: Chatting with the Cast of THE HEIRESS on Opening Night - Jessica Chastain, Dan Stevens and More!
by Nicole Rosky - 2012-11-04 18:42:27
TV: Sneak Peek of Jessica Chastain, Dan Stevens & More in THE HEIRESS; Full Performance Highlights!
by Nicole Rosky - 2012-11-01 16:10:29
TV: Sneak Preview of THE HEIRESS - Jessica Chastain, Dan Stevens & More! Opens Tonight!
by Robert Diamond - 2012-10-31 16:42:21
TV EXCLUSIVE: Broadway Belts and Raises $50,000 for PFF! Joel Grey, Adam Pascal, Julie Halston & More!
by Jessica Lewis - 2012-02-28 15:57:56
STAGE TUBE: Menzel Brings 'Gravity' & 'Love' to the White House
by Jessica Lewis - 2010-10-22 15:48:46
STAGE TUBE: 'A Broadway Celebration at the White House' Airs Tonight on PBS, 10/20
by Jessica Lewis - 2010-10-20 16:10:22
STAGE TUBE: Double the Edna, Double the Fun - Ball and Jupitus Perform on 'Never Mind the Buzzcocks'
by Robert Diamond - 2009-12-07 15:26:30
TV: Hairspray's Constantine Rousouli 'Flips' For BroadwayWorld
by Craig Brockman - 2008-10-17 08:55:40
News
Interview: Meet the General Managers That Keep Broadway Running, Wendy Orshan and Jeffrey M. Wilson
by Robert Diamond - Jan 6, 2026
Every Broadway show needs general management and Wendy Orshan and Jeffrey M. Wilson are here to provide. The pair heads 101 Productions, Ltd.- a theatrical General Management firm formed in 1994.
by Robert Diamond - Jan 6, 2026
Every Broadway show needs general management and Wendy Orshan and Jeffrey M. Wilson are here to provide. The pair heads 101 Productions, Ltd.- a theatrical General Management firm formed in 1994.
Review: HAIRSPRAY Revivals in São Paulo with a Beautiful Message of Acceptance
by Claudio Erlichman - Oct 15, 2024
A girl achieves her dream of performing on a TV dance show in 1960s Baltimore — and works to integrate the show — in this musical version of the John Waters film. Outside of traditional beauty standards, she faces many prejudices, become an instant celebrity, and fight against racial segregation promoting inclusion of everyone in the city.
by Claudio Erlichman - Oct 15, 2024
A girl achieves her dream of performing on a TV dance show in 1960s Baltimore — and works to integrate the show — in this musical version of the John Waters film. Outside of traditional beauty standards, she faces many prejudices, become an instant celebrity, and fight against racial segregation promoting inclusion of everyone in the city.
La Jolla Playhouse's Eric Keen-Louie Named Artistic Producing Director
by Stephi Wild - Feb 7, 2024
La Jolla Playhouse has announced that Eric Keen-Louie, who joined the Playhouse in 2018, will take on the role of Artistic Producing Director. Learn more about Eric and his role here!
by Stephi Wild - Feb 7, 2024
La Jolla Playhouse has announced that Eric Keen-Louie, who joined the Playhouse in 2018, will take on the role of Artistic Producing Director. Learn more about Eric and his role here!
Museum of Broadway Adds Costumes from Lea Michele & Ben Platt; New Exclusive Artifacts
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 21, 2023
Guests visiting the Museum of Broadway can view new artifacts including the “Don’t Rain On My Parade” costume worn by Lea Michele in Funny Girl and a suit worn by Ben Platt in the 2023 Tony Award-winning Best Revival of a Musical Parade.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 21, 2023
Guests visiting the Museum of Broadway can view new artifacts including the “Don’t Rain On My Parade” costume worn by Lea Michele in Funny Girl and a suit worn by Ben Platt in the 2023 Tony Award-winning Best Revival of a Musical Parade.
Meow Meow to Bring Latest Cabaret Show to the Lincoln Theatre in November
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 1, 2023
Join Meow Meow for an unforgettable evening of cabaret entertainment at the Lincoln Theatre on November 8. Experience her latest show filled with mesmerizing performances and captivating music. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to witness Meow Meow's talent live on stage. Get your tickets now!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 1, 2023
Join Meow Meow for an unforgettable evening of cabaret entertainment at the Lincoln Theatre on November 8. Experience her latest show filled with mesmerizing performances and captivating music. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to witness Meow Meow's talent live on stage. Get your tickets now!
Museum of Broadway to Offer Educational Workshops and Resources for School Groups
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 23, 2023
The Museum of Broadway will begin offering onsite educational workshops and resources for school group visitors.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 23, 2023
The Museum of Broadway will begin offering onsite educational workshops and resources for school group visitors.
Museum Of Broadway to Present THE AMERICAN THEATRE AS SEEN BY AL HIRSCHFELD as First Special Exhibit
by Blair Ingenthron - Oct 5, 2022
The Museum of Broadway has announced the first special exhibit that will be featured in the Museum, The American Theatre as seen by Hirschfeld, curated by David Leopold, Creative Director of The Al Hirschfeld Foundation.
by Blair Ingenthron - Oct 5, 2022
The Museum of Broadway has announced the first special exhibit that will be featured in the Museum, The American Theatre as seen by Hirschfeld, curated by David Leopold, Creative Director of The Al Hirschfeld Foundation.
People's Light Announces An Expansion of the Theatre's Artistic Team, Including Steve H. Broadnax III & More
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 19, 2022
Following their recent leadership transition in which Producing Artistic Director Zak Berkman succeeded former Executive Artistic Director Abigail Adams, People’s Light has announce an exciting expansion of their artistic team with four new appointments. Broadway-favorite Steve H. Broadnax III (Thoughts of a Colored Man) transitions from Resident Director to People’s Light Associate Artistic Director.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 19, 2022
Following their recent leadership transition in which Producing Artistic Director Zak Berkman succeeded former Executive Artistic Director Abigail Adams, People’s Light has announce an exciting expansion of their artistic team with four new appointments. Broadway-favorite Steve H. Broadnax III (Thoughts of a Colored Man) transitions from Resident Director to People’s Light Associate Artistic Director.
Photos: Playhouse Square Honors Legendary Lyricist Sir Tim Rice
by A.A. Cristi - May 9, 2022
Playhouse Square Board of Trustees Chair Amy Brady honored noted lyricist Sir Tim Rice with the organization’s highest award, the Playhouse Square Star Award for Achievement in the Performing Arts, at its annual Chairman’s Dinner on May 4.
by A.A. Cristi - May 9, 2022
Playhouse Square Board of Trustees Chair Amy Brady honored noted lyricist Sir Tim Rice with the organization’s highest award, the Playhouse Square Star Award for Achievement in the Performing Arts, at its annual Chairman’s Dinner on May 4.
Work by David Rockwell, Bunny Christie & More to be Featured in The Museum of Broadway
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 3, 2022
Today, The Museum of Broadway announced a group of featured artists who have designed various rooms and exhibits within the Museum, as well as their team of expert curators. Tickets will go on sale on June 14th.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 3, 2022
Today, The Museum of Broadway announced a group of featured artists who have designed various rooms and exhibits within the Museum, as well as their team of expert curators. Tickets will go on sale on June 14th.
LISTEN: Jenny Steingart Talks FREESTYLE LOVE SUPREME & More on THE THEATRE PODCAST WITH ALAN SEALES
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 23, 2021
Jenny Steingart is a powerhouse producer for theatre, film, and television. She has worked alongside some of the greatest names in the industry, including Tina Fey, Joel Grey, Sir Patrick Stewart, Josh Groban, and Lin Manuel Miranda
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 23, 2021
Jenny Steingart is a powerhouse producer for theatre, film, and television. She has worked alongside some of the greatest names in the industry, including Tina Fey, Joel Grey, Sir Patrick Stewart, Josh Groban, and Lin Manuel Miranda
La Jolla Playhouse's Eric Keen-Louie Appointed to New Role of Executive Producer
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Aug 19, 2021
La Jolla Playhouse has announced that Eric Keen-Louie, who joined the Playhouse in 2018 as Producing Director, will take on the new role of Executive Producer at the Theatre. As lead producer, Keen-Louie will collaborate with Playhouse staff to oversee assembling creative teams, casting, production budgets, and artistic development.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Aug 19, 2021
La Jolla Playhouse has announced that Eric Keen-Louie, who joined the Playhouse in 2018 as Producing Director, will take on the new role of Executive Producer at the Theatre. As lead producer, Keen-Louie will collaborate with Playhouse staff to oversee assembling creative teams, casting, production budgets, and artistic development.
Glenn Close, Jennifer Hudson, Samuel L. Jackson and 70+ Stars Will Take Part in IN OUR AMERICA: A Concert for the Soul of the Nation
by Nicole Rosky - Oct 6, 2020
Broadway for Biden has just announced an all-star team for upcoming fundraiser In Our America: A Concert for the Soul of the Nation. The one-night only virtual event will bring Broadway together to celebrate hope and benefit the Biden Victory Fund.
by Nicole Rosky - Oct 6, 2020
Broadway for Biden has just announced an all-star team for upcoming fundraiser In Our America: A Concert for the Soul of the Nation. The one-night only virtual event will bring Broadway together to celebrate hope and benefit the Biden Victory Fund.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What awards has Margo Lion been nominated for?
Best Musical (Tony Awards) for Catch Me If You Can, Best Play (Tony Awards) for Radio Golf, Best Musical (Tony Awards) for The Wedding Singer, Best Musical (Tony Awards) for Caroline, or Change, Best Musical (Tony Awards) for Hairspray, Best Revival of a Play (Tony Awards) for The Crucible, Best Special Theatrical Event (Tony Awards) for Elaine Stritch at Liberty, Unique Theatrical Experience (The Lortels) for Mnemonic, Best Play (Tony Awards) for Seven Guitars, Best Play (Tony Awards) for Angels in America: Perestroika, Best Play (Tony Awards) for Angels in America: Millennium Approaches and Best Musical (Tony Awards) for Jelly's Last Jam.
What awards has Margo Lion won?
Margo Lion has won several prestigious awards, including the Tony Award for Best Musical for Hairspray, the Tony Award for Best Special Theatrical Event for Elaine Stritch at Liberty, and the Lucille Lortel Award for Unique Theatrical Experience for Mnemonic. Additionally, she has received Tony Awards for Best Play for both Angels in America: Perestroika and Angels in America: Millennium Approaches.
Videos