Description
Book SynopsisFrom his writing of ÊGodspellÊ's score at age 23 through the making of the megahit musical ÊWickedÊ and beyond ÊDefying Gravity: The Creative Career of Stephen Schwartz fromÊ Godspell ÊtoÊ Wicked takes readers into the world of the legendary Broadway and film composer-lyricist. In this authorized biography drawing from her interviews with Schwartz and his collaborators author Carol de Giere focuses on the behind-the-scenes stories for Schwartz's hits and disappointing flops. Readers will find colorful anecdotes and insights for his licensed musicals ÊChildren of EdenÊ ÊPippin Ê ÊWorkingÊ and others. ÊDefying GravityÊ also includes Hollywood stories beginning with a new foreword by composer Alan Menken.ÞThis updated and revised second edition delves into Stephen Schwartz's creative process for the new stage musicals ÊThe Hunchback of Notre DameÊ ÊThe Prince of EgyptÊ and other shows. It provides additional insights on Schwartz's early work with Leonard Bernstein and his more recent international work on ÊWickedÊ. It offers additional Creative Notes ä a popular feature of the first edition ä with comments from Schwartz about overcoming creative blocks collaboration and the artistic life.
Trade ReviewThe second edition of Defying Gravity is a treasure-trove of information, stories, insights, and creative advice for anyone who wants to know more about Stephen Schwartz, or about the creative process of writing songs for the stage and screen. -- Ryan Luevano * Tin Pan L.A. *
A stunning 512 pages (with photographs and handwritten notes), de Giere's book is a thoroughly fascinating read as well as something of a musical theatre master class in written form—one that has been lovingly lensed through the life and creativity of Stephen Schwartz. -- Linda Hodges * BroadwayWorld.com *
This new version of what had been an already an impactful book offers deeper and wider insights into the creative mind of Stephen Schwartz ... As she did in the original edition, the author has captured not only the genius of the man, but his spirit, as well. -- Al Chase * The White Rhino Report blog *
