Stephen Schwartz at Seattle's 5th Avenue Theatre

On April 9^th, Seattle/>/>'s 5^th AvenueTheatre presented an intimate evening with Stephen Schwartz.  While the event served as a preview for the upcoming Pippin, it was also a lovely walk down memory lane with one of musical theatre's most popular composers.  Schwartz spoke vividly of his college days, his big break, and his first days in New York City/>/>.  He shared intimate stories about the creation of his diverse body of work, which was accented by impressive performances by Schwartz, some Broadway favorites, and Seattle/>/>'s most popular stars. 

Schwartz talked about the genesis of Godspell, and his late involvement in a project that many define as his signature piece.  He recalled his delight in finding many of his college chums involved.  Louis Hobson performed a belty "All Good Gifts" to highlight the well-known score.  The composer went into great detail about the early stages of Pippin (once called Pippin, Pippin) saying that the show was influenced by The Lion in Winter.  One story recalled Schwartz's manager schlepping him around NYC playing the score to anyone who would listen.  Schwartz addressed his much publicized feud with Bob Fosse, chalking the whole thing up to youth's folly.  He noted that he now understands and agrees with many of the changes made by Fosse. Schwartz performed a touching "Corner of the Sky", proving that he is a gifted singer/storyteller. 

Schwartz spoke of the speedy writing period behind the creation of The Magic Show.  He called himself insane for deciding to complete the show in such a short timeline.  He told a vivid story about the flashy staging of "Lion Tamer", which was followed by a thoughtful reading of the song by Billie Wildrick.  Wildrick's performance was a touching interpretation of one of Schwartz's strongest numbers.  Schwartz spoke of the infamous backstage drama involved behind The Baker's Wife.  He confirmed David Merrick's hatred of what has become Schwartz's most performed song, "Meadowlark".  Merrick had such disdain for "Meadowlark" that he removed all the sheet music from the orchestra pit during a Washington/> DC/>/> tryout.  Kim Huber gave the most thrilling performance of the night, making this musical theatre standard sound fresh and vibrant.  Huber's thrilling vocals brought the house down.  Schwartz said he was finally able to put Baker's Wife to rest with the recent revisal at Papermill.  

Schwartz touched on the process behind Working, his collaborative musical about the everyday jobs that go unnoticed.  He said much of the score was taken directly from the mouths of the workers interviewed, fondly remembering their faces when they saw the actual show.  Carol Swarbrick performed the comically complicated "It's an Art".  Schwartz spoke briefly of Rags (saying he and Strouse still need to revisit this show), Children of Eden/> (another heavily revised work), and his success in Hollywood/>/> as a lyricist for many animated musicals.  Huber returned with a magnificent "Colors of the Wind" from Pocahontas.  Schwartz shared some of the early lyrics that were wisely rewritten at the insistence of Alan Menken. 

The house exploded at the very mention of Schwartz's mega-hit Wicked.  Schwartz credited the success of the show to Winnie Holzman's dense book.  He spoke in detail about his discovery of Gregory McGuire's book, and the long workshop process involved.  Schwartz noted his reluctance to write the show's finale between Elphaba and Glinda, and how his daughter's stories of childhood friendship inspired him to write "For Good". Two songs from Wicked were performed, with Seattle/>/>'s Kat Ramsburg giving an audience pleasing "The Wizard and I" and Schwartz providing a brilliant "For Good" on the piano.  The night closed with Hobson and the Pippin company delivering a chilling "Morning Glow". 

Though the evening was filled with great performances, the highlight was Schwartz candidly taking us through the successes and failures of his long career. His constant quest to perfect his work is a testament to his artistry.  This was a rare night filled with delicious story and song. 

Pippin opens on May 5th. For tickets call (206) 292-ARTS or visit www.5thAvenueTheatre.org

Photo of Stephen Schwartz by TEAM PHOTOGENIC

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