In “Defying Gravity: The Creative Career of Stephen Schwartz, from Godspell to Wicked” by biographer Carol de Giere, the celebrated composer Stephen Schwartz’s journey is explored in great detail. The book sheds light on how Schwartz, celebrated for his Academy Award and Grammy-winning works, found inspiration for his most popular musical, Wicked, through Gregory Maguire’s novel. The narrative dives into Schwartz’s artistic evolution, the challenges he faced, and the pivotal moments that led to the creation of one of Broadway’s longest-running shows.

Article Subheadings
1) Early Career Highlights and Achievements
2) The Call that Changed Everything
3) Inspiration Strikes in Maui
4) The Transformation from Novel to Musical
5) The Emotional Resonance of Elphaba

Early Career Highlights and Achievements

Stephen Schwartz’s career began to take shape in the 1970s, quickly leading him to become a prominent figure in musical theater. His early successes include Godspell, which premiered off-Broadway in 1971, and the acclaimed Pippin that followed in 1972. Schwartz’s knack for combining thoughtful lyrics with memorable melodies enabled him to carve a niche for himself in an industry that often favored glitzy productions over artistic depth.

His talents were soon recognized beyond the theater world, leading to opportunities in film scores. Notably, Schwartz garnered immense acclaim for his work on Disney’s animated feature Pocahontas, released in 1995. The film was a significant milestone for Schwartz, as it led to an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Colors of the Wind” and showcased his ability to create emotionally resonant material across different formats.

The year 1996 saw Schwartz immersed in numerous projects, including The Hunchback of Notre Dame and The Prince of Egypt. Despite his thriving career in film, Schwartz’s longing for Broadway remained, albeit overshadowed by the success that awaited him later in the year. His trajectory thus far painted a portrait of a composer deeply rooted in storytelling, eager to explore and convey complex emotional landscapes through music.

The Call that Changed Everything

Towards the end of 1996, Schwartz received a phone call from his friend, songwriter John Bucchino, while in Los Angeles. Bucchino was enjoying a getaway in Maui, equipped with an extra bed and a free vacation for Schwartz, who saw it as a welcome break amidst his hectic schedule. The call not only offered Schwartz an opportunity to unwind but unwittingly set the stage for a transformative moment in his career.

While on the island, Bucchino and singer-songwriter Holly Near organized adventures that included snorkeling and casual discussions. It was during one of these interactions that Near mentioned reading Gregory Maguire’s novel, Wicked, which piqued Schwartz’s interest. Little did he know that this casual mention would lead to his next Broadway project, compelling him to reconsider his personal boundaries related to stage work.

At this juncture, Schwartz’s life took an unexpected turn. The conversation and subsequent spark of inspiration awakened something dormant in him—the desire to create anew for Broadway. He reflected upon his past, recognizing that the character of Elphaba, the misunderstood heroine of Wicked, resonated deeply with his own experiences and ambitions as an artist.

Inspiration Strikes in Maui

Maui became not just a vacation spot but a crucible for Schwartz’s creativity. As he absorbed the novel’s themes and character arcs, the idea of retelling the familiar Oz story from the perspective of the Wicked Witch invigorated him. The notion that traditionally villainous characters might possess complex, relatable backstories opened up an entirely new narrative avenue for Schwartz. He recalled,

“All the hairs on my arms stood on end. I thought it was the best idea for a musical I had ever heard.”

Returning to his Los Angeles apartment, Schwartz knew he must act quickly to secure the rights to adapt Maguire’s novel into a musical. He reached out to his attorney, allowing his enthusiasm and instinct to guide the way. This proactive approach demonstrated Schwartz’s commitment to seeing his vision realized, motivating him to dive back into the world of Broadway, a platform he had previously stepped away from.

As he delved deeper into the narrative and began jotting down ideas, Schwartz reflected on the ability of theater to tackle contemporary issues through allegorical storytelling. He noted the significant impact that Wicked could have by exploring themes of identity, acceptance, and the broader implications of societal labels.

The Transformation from Novel to Musical

The next step for Schwartz was daunting yet exciting: transforming Maguire’s dense and layered narrative into a musical format. The original story spanned over thirty-eight years and featured a wealth of characters that proved both a challenge and an opportunity for creative expression. It required skilled collaboration among various artists, including a book writer and additional lyricists, to distill the plot into components suitable for theatrical presentation.

Schwartz’s passion for revisiting classic stories through a fresh lens drove him to embrace the meticulous development process necessary for this ambitious project. Describing the journey, he acknowledged that crafting the musical adaptation was like building a complex puzzle with pieces that needed to fit together seamlessly. His goal was to ensure that the emotional depth of the characters endured through this transformation.

By strategically focusing on Elphaba’s character arc, Schwartz managed to retain the core essence of the novel while making it accessible to a broader audience. The collaborative efforts of the creative team helped bridge the gap between a complex literary work and a dynamic, engaging theatrical experience.

The Emotional Resonance of Elphaba

Elphaba represents more than just a fictional character; she embodies the struggles of those who have felt marginalized or misunderstood. Schwartz eloquently conveyed this notion, stating that her journey resonates with artists and individuals from various backgrounds. He mused about how many have experienced feelings of isolation and dissonance, making Elphaba a symbol of perseverance and self-acceptance.

In his view, anyone who has grappled with societal norms or expectations can see themselves in Elphaba’s story. Schwartz noted that her character appealed especially to those within ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ communities, and women navigating male-dominated worlds. This collective identification with her plight laid the groundwork for Wicked’s universal appeal, transcending the specific context of Oz.

Through poignant lyrics and powerful musical numbers, Schwartz crafted Elphaba’s emotional landscape, allowing audiences to connect with her in profound ways. He believed deeply that the character could inspire others, making them feel less alone in their battles, reinforcing a sense of community through shared experiences found in the narrative.

No.	Key Points
1	Stephen Schwartz’s career spans multiple successful musicals and film scores, establishing him as a key figure in musical theater.
2	A phone call from a friend led to Schwartz discovering the novel Wicked by Gregory Maguire, which radically changed the direction of his career.
3	Schwartz’s experience in Maui catalyzed his creativity, leading him to explore the untold stories of traditionally villainous characters.
4	Transforming Maguire’s novel into a musical required collaborative efforts and creative ingenuity to navigate its complexities.
5	Elphaba serves as a relatable character for those who feel marginalized, reflecting Schwartz’s commitment to telling stories of resilience and identity.

Summary

Stephen Schwartz’s journey in creating Wicked exemplifies the transformative power of storytelling through music. By embracing perspectives that challenge traditional narratives, he has managed to craft a work that resonates with a diverse audience. Through his artistic vision, Schwartz not only redefined a classic story but also offered hope and connection to those who might feel out of place, ultimately establishing Wicked as a monumental achievement in contemporary musical theater.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What inspired Stephen Schwartz to create Wicked?

Stephen Schwartz was inspired by Gregory Maguire’s novel, which presents the story of the Wicked Witch of the West from a different perspective, prompting him to reevaluate traditional narratives in musical theater.

Question: What themes are explored in Wicked?

Wicked explores themes of identity, acceptance, and societal labels, particularly through the character of Elphaba, who resonates with audiences who have felt marginalized.

Question: How did Schwartz secure the rights to the novel Wicked for adaptation?

After reading the novel on a friend’s recommendation, Schwartz proactively contacted his attorney to investigate the rights, demonstrating his commitment to the project and eagerness to see it adapted for the stage.

The historic opera “Morgiane,” recognized as the oldest known opera composed by a Black American, made its debut in 2025 after lying dormant for over a century. This remarkable work, crafted by New Orleans-born composer Edmond Dede, draws inspiration from the classic tale of “Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves,” showcasing the struggles of a mother and daughter against a tyrannical ruler. The journey to bring “Morgiane” to stage has been spearheaded by dedicated music professionals who uncovered the long-forgotten piece and transformed it into a living performance.

Article Subheadings
1) The Legacy of Edmond Dede
2) Unearthing “Morgiane”
3) The Rediscovery and Modern Adaptation
4) The Historic Premiere of “Morgiane”
5) Dede’s Enduring Legacy in the Arts

The Legacy of Edmond Dede

Born in 1827, Edmond Dede was not only a gifted composer but also a notable figure in American musical history. As a free Black man from New Orleans, he navigated a challenging landscape during a time of racial strife. After receiving a formal education, he ventured to France in 1855, just prior to the Civil War, where he became entrenched in the vibrant European arts scene. Dede studied music at the esteemed Paris Conservatoire and showcased his talents in prestigious venues such as Bordeaux’s Grand Theatre.

Dede’s travels, particularly to Algeria, deeply influenced his artistic perspective, as he grew sympathetic to the struggles of oppressed people. Despite his talents, his return to the United States during the Jim Crow era was marred by discrimination. He faced obstacles in performing his music in theaters, which ultimately led him to decide not to return to his homeland, reaffirming his commitment to the European art circles.

His portfolio included an impressive array of over 250 musical compositions—spaning songs, ballets, and orchestral pieces. However, “Morgiane,” with its complex themes and rich score, was his undisputed masterpiece. It encapsulates not only his musical range but also his experiences and observations of the world around him.

Unearthing “Morgiane”

The operatic piece “Morgiane” remained hidden for many decades until it caught the attention of Givonna Joseph and Aria Mason, founders of the New Orleans Opera Creole, in 2014. While searching for compositions by composers of African heritage, they stumbled upon a digital copy of “Morgiane.” Immediately recognizing its significance, they felt a compelling responsibility to bring it to life.

In an interview, Joseph expressed her instinctive belief in the importance of the work, stating,

“I had, you know how you get, a gut feeling that this was important. I didn’t know exactly how.”

This intuition led the duo on a mission to connect with musicians and historians across the nation to gather the necessary resources and knowledge to adapt the opera for contemporary audiences.

The endeavor required meticulous effort, including the transcription of nearly 6,000 measures of the original music into modern notation—an arduous process that ultimately resurrected sounds that had not been heard in over a century. This commitment not only honored Dede’s legacy but also allowed modern audiences to engage with his work in a profound manner.

The Rediscovery and Modern Adaptation

The full revival of “Morgiane” involved cooperation because it mingled traditional opera with vibrant cultural histories. Among the prominent figures in the mission was Patrick Quigley, who serves as the artistic director designate of Opera Lafayette in Washington, D.C. His collaboration with Joseph paved the way for a community effort that brought together musicians, scholars, and cultural advocates. Quigley’s enthusiasm for music resonated throughout the project as they captured the rich blend of European and American musical styles in Dede’s work.

In describing the composition, Quigley noted,

“It’s this fabulous combination of so many different styles of music, both European and American all together in one place.”

This blend illustrates Dede’s capability to bridge cultures through music—a testament to his talent as a composer and his understanding of diversity in artistry.

With each rehearsal and performance, the preservation of Dede’s work has sparked discussions surrounding representation and the historical significance of Black composers in American music. This restoration is more than a mere tribute—it’s a call to action for greater inclusion in the arts.

The Historic Premiere of “Morgiane”

The culmination of years of hard work was realized on January 24, when excerpts from “Morgiane” were performed at the iconic St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, a symbolic location as it is believed to be the site of Dede’s baptism. This performance marked a significant step towards acknowledging Dede’s contributions to music. The grand premiere of the opera took place on February 3 at Opera Lafayette, eliciting overwhelming excitement and pride within the arts community.

Quigley, who conducted the event, described the premiere as a landmark moment for both Washington, D.C., and for American music as a whole. He commented,

“It was an incredible moment for Washington, D.C., and it was an incredible moment for American music.”

Following this key event, two additional performances were staged in New York City and College Park, Maryland, effectively completing a brief tour that celebrated Dede’s artistry and offered a homecoming of sorts.

Joseph referred to Dede as “a New Orleans hero,” highlighting the impact of his legacy and the importance of sharing his narrative with contemporary audiences. The return of “Morgiane” not only pays homage to Dede but also serves as a platform to discuss broader themes of race, culture, and representation in the performing arts.

Dede’s Enduring Legacy in the Arts

The enduring relevance of “Morgiane” and its celebration of Edmond Dede is a reminder of the rich tapestry of influences shaping American music. As the opera resonates with modern audiences, it opens pathways for discussions about diversity in the arts and the continued pursuit of equity within the cultural institutions. Efforts like those of Joseph and Mason ensure such stories of marginalized artists are not forgotten.

The successful run of “Morgiane” marks only the beginning. The concerted efforts to bring this piece to life echo the pressing need for an inclusive representation of historical figures in the arts. As we celebrate works like “Morgiane,” the music community can continue advocating for a broader acknowledgment of Black composers and artists whose contributions have frequently been overlooked.

With Dede’s work finally gracing the stage, it serves as an inspiring testament to the resilience of artists of color and the importance of preserving their legacies for future generations. “Morgiane” stands as a pathway to understanding, appreciation, and advancement within America’s artistic landscape.

No.	Key Points
1	“Morgiane” is regarded as the oldest existing opera composed by a Black American.
2	The opera was written by Edmond Dede, a free Black man from New Orleans.
3	The piece was rediscovered by Givonna Joseph and Aria Mason in 2014.
4	The premiere took place on February 3, 2025, at Opera Lafayette in Washington, D.C.
5	The revival of “Morgiane” highlights the need for increased representation of Black composers in the arts.

Summary

The long-awaited premiere of “Morgiane” represents a significant moment in American music history, spotlighting the legacy of Edmond Dede and his contributions as a Black composer. Through the tireless efforts of advocates like Givonna Joseph and Aria Mason, this opera’s rich narrative and musical complexity have come to life, sparking an essential dialogue about representation and inclusion. The revival not only honors Dede but also enriches the cultural landscape, fostering greater appreciation for diverse artistic voices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Why is “Morgiane” significant in American opera history?

“Morgiane” is significant as it is recognized as the oldest existing opera written by a Black American, highlighting the contributions of composers of African descent to the classical music canon.

Question: Who was Edmond Dede, and where was he born?

Edmond Dede was a composer born in New Orleans in 1827. He was a free Black man who became known for his operas and orchestral works, notably his unfinished magnum opus, “Morgiane.”

Question: How were the performances of “Morgiane” received by the audience?

The performances of “Morgiane” were met with enthusiasm and appreciation, marking a crucial moment of recognition for Dede’s work and fostering discussions about representation in the arts.