Wicked movie soundtrack and other updates from the world of Broadway and film composer-lyricist Stephen Schwartz and author Carol de Giere — a fan newsletter. FINAL ISSUE.
1) Welcome from Carol de Giere
This is my final issue of The Schwartz Scene after 24 years. I started it while interviewing Stephen Schwartz for the career biography Defying Gravity and have enjoyed keeping fans updated with his latest activities over the years.
I hope you will return in November when I can repost the main interview for this issue focusing on the Wicked movie soundtrack. Meanwhile, you’ll find some other Wicked movie notes, The Queen of Versailles musical updates, and more. For back issues visit our Back issue archive. If you are on Facebook, you can follow the page that Stephen’s office posts in, from time to time. https://www.facebook.com/StephenSchwartzOfficial and visit his official site StephenSchwartz.com news section for occasional updates.
2) Stephen Schwartz Updates
This interview text has been withheld and will be reposted closer to November.
The Wicked movie soundtrack for Part I has an email mailing list for notification of pre-sales. https://www.wickedthesoundtrack.com/
Wicked Movie Release Date, Trailers, Posters, and Merchandise
Universal Pictures has moved the Wicked Part 1 release date in the USA too November 22nd, 2024. You can enjoy several trailers for Wicked. Go to https://www.universalpictures.com/movies/wicked to view the 3 ½ minute trailer, Lego version, passion project, and more. Soon you’ll be seeing plenty of movie merchandise as well.
Essential Reading about Wicked’s music and creation.
While we’re waiting for the movie, now’s your chance to read behind-the-scenes stories for Wicked as a stage musical. The Defying Gravity career biography takes readers through the making of Wicked, Godspell, Pippin, The Prince of Egypt, and other Stephen Schwartz shows and movies. It includes photos from Stephen’s archives, “Creativity Notes,” and more.
The 2nd edition includes new chapters and features a Foreword by Schwartz’s frequent collaborator, composer Alan Menken (that includes a story about Wicked‘s opening night). https://caroldegiere.com/defying-gravity/
3). All Good Gifts – More Stephen Schwartz Musical News
The Queen of Versailles New Musical
Come to Boston this summer for the pre-Broadway try out of this new musical by Stephen Schwartz (music and lyrics) and Lindsey Ferrentino (book). The show’s run at the historic Emerson Colonial Theatre has been extended through August 25th. Previews begin July 16th. Watch for reviews after August 1st.
On the official website https://queenofversaillesmusical.com/ you’ll find the full cast list.
Earlier this year, The Queen of Versailles musical star Kristin Chenoweth invited Stephen to a New Jersey concert engagement. The duo debuted the song “Caviar Dreams” from the show. https://youtu.be/IHUwyR6HuN0
PHOTO – Kristin Chenoweth and Stephen Schwartz – Photo by Drew Elhamalawy, used with permission.
If you missed our special issue about the new musical go to The Queen of Versailles Musical Issue . You’ll find comments from Stephen Schwartz about the Boston run and the show origins.
The Baker’s Wife in London
A revival of The Baker’s Wife runs at The Menier Chocolate Factory theatre from July through mid-September. Stephen will be returning to London at some point to view the production.
For Godspell Fans
The Godspell Experience, with a Foreword by Stephen Schwartz, is a colorful account of Godspell’s creative journey based on interviews with original cast members and others. It includes a song-by-song section, and delightful comments from the show’s original cast members. Come sing—and read—about love! https://caroldegiere.com/the-godspell-experience/ Copies signed by Stephen are available.
Staying in touch – message from Carol
I have really enjoyed meeting so many Stephen Schwartz fans online and in person. Although I’m shifting more into a retirement mode, I will still sometimes post on Facebook about Schwartz-related things. You’re welcome to visit my website in the future http://caroldegiere.com/ (I still have another book in me), “Follow” me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/carol.degiere/ or if you want to reach out, email me at carol1@caroldegiere.com
About The Schwartz Scene
For back issues visit our Back issue archive. The Schwartz Scene is an independent publication written for musical theater and film enthusiasts who appreciate the work of American composer-lyricist Stephen Schwartz. It does not formally represent Mr. Schwartz, although Carol de Giere is in regular contact with the Schwartz office for updates and approval of his quotations. Send questions or comments to Carol by email to carol1@caroldegiere.com or if you have direct questions for the Schwartz office go to Stephenschwartz.com
Copyright 2024 by Carol de Giere. Journalists are asked to cite “The Schwartz Scene” newsletter if quoting, in brief, from this issue. Carol de Giere has exclusive rights, unless otherwise specified, for all materials included in the newsletter. Permission must be secured in writing before any part of it may be reprinted, except for the printing of one copy for the subscriber’s private use. Editor: Carol de Giere, 10 Library Place #909, Bethel CT 06801-0909.
