Stephen Schwartz: The Wizard Behind 'Wicked'

Behind the Curtain with Stephen Schwartz

When I think of Broadway, one name immediately springs to mind: Stephen Schwartz. The man whose musical genius has graced us with stunning productions like Wicked, Pippin, and Godspell, Schwartz's journey is both mesmerizing and poignant. Through heart and humor, he illuminates the complicated relationship between creativity and success.

A Musical Prodigy

Schwartz's musical aptitude was evident from a young age. Growing up on Long Island, he was immersed in a world of melodies that transcended time. “When I was a kid and playing Beethoven,” he reflects, “I would play that bar over and over again and cry. It's very embarrassing! Beethoven lives in a world that has nothing to do with ours, but he writes, and it speaks to us across the centuries.”

From Father to the Wicked Witch

Wicked premiered 22 years ago, casting a long shadow over Broadway. With its prequel derived from The Wizard of Oz, it reaches even further into our cultural psyche by exploring the backstories of its characters—Elphaba and Glinda. As the movie adaptation of Wicked: For Good gears up for release on November 21, Schwartz finds himself in the thick of artistic innovation.

Success Isn't Everything

Many people assume success is a golden ticket, but Schwartz's story tells of the dizzying highs and gut-wrenching lows. “It was difficult for me to handle my early success,” he admits. “I became somewhat difficult to deal with.” The taste of fame fueled his sense of self, leading to an inflated ego and disillusionment with collaboration. He confesses, “It took some failures to learn how to deal with both success and failure.”

“It's too nerve-wracking for me. I don't like the opening night parties where everybody is just waiting to hear what reviews come in.”

The 'Four-Fecta' of Flops

After achieving legendary status with hits, Schwartz experienced a series of misfires, which he refers to as his “four-fecta” of flops. With musicals like Working and Rags quickly forgotten, he faced a critical reckoning. “I'm almost never a critic's choice,” Schwartz states, a sigh hinting at deep industry acknowledgment. Yet, the fragility of being in the spotlight has taught him enduring lessons about the human connection at the heart of storytelling.

Creative Renaissance

In the '90s, Schwartz stepped away from Broadway to pursue a degree in psychology, a move that allowed him to rediscover his artistic voice. “It was therapeutic,” he reveals. “It reminded me of how to deal with other people and not just come in like a bull in a china shop.” His return wasn't as a king to his kingdom; rather, it was as a collaborator—now with a renewed perspective.

Hollywood and Legacy

Even as he ventured into film, writing songs for Disney classics like Pocahontas and The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Schwartz's heart remained in theater. “I feel so blessed,” Schwartz shares. “The work I've done has this ongoing life that I know is going to keep going when I'm not here.”

The Future of Schwartz

At 77, Schwartz finds vitality in making music that resonates. He quips, “Listen, they still let me do this!” His tenacity serves as an inspiration, reminding us all to keep defying gravity, just like his poignant characters. Even as Broadway changes, Schwartz's impact echoes through the ages, perhaps more resoundingly than ever before.

Catch the Magic

• Explore Wicked at the Gershwin Theatre for an experience that continues to enchant audiences.
• Discover The Queen of Versailles for a fresh take on musical storytelling.

In a world so astutely crafted by Schwartz, we're continually reminded that each note is a brushstroke on the canvas of human emotion—a tapestry of connection woven together by the stories we share.

To delve deeper into Schwartz's creative journey, check out “Defying Gravity,” a biography that captures the essence of his legacy.