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Paperback and E-book Now Available!

Defying Gravity

The Creative Career of Stephen Schwartz from Godspell to Wicked

This updated second edition offers an unprecedented look at American musical icon and Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz. Author Carol de Giere takes readers behind the scenes, from Schwartz’s writing of Godspell’s score at age 23 through the making of the megahit Wicked.

READ MORE ABOUT DEFYING GRAVITY →

Stephen Schwartz and Carol de Giere discuss second edition of Defying Gravity Stephen Schwartz biography

Stephen Schwartz and Carol de Giere reviewing chapters.

“…I devoured Defying Gravity, the Stephen Schwartz bio….

Lin Manuel Miranda

Tony Award-winning writer & composer (Hamilton, In the Heights)

I devoured [Defying Gravity]—not only because it’s wonderfully written and tells a great story, but because it was so refreshingly honest about the vulnerability and pressure we face as artists. Each chapter has a “creativity notes” section which gives hands on insight into process, not only of songwriting, but how to navigate the mental game of show business.

Kristen Anderson-Lopez

Academy and Grammy Award-winning songwriter (Frozen)

“In Defying Gravity, Carol de Giere pulls back the curtain and gives us a fascinating glimpse into the creative process of one of musical theater’s greatest wizards. Enjoy!”

Stephen Flaherty

Tony Award-winning composer (Anastasia, Ragtime, Once on This Island)

Also available

The Godspell Experience

Inside a Transformative Musical

Whether you have warm memories of Godspell or are putting on the show, you’ll enjoy the insights provided here by original cast members and Stephen Schwartz!

READ MORE ABOUT THE GODSPELL EXPERIENCE

Meet Carol

Carol de Giere is the author of two books that provide behind-the-scenes stories on popular musicals.

(“de Giere” is pronounced with a soft G and rhymes with Pierre)

ABOUT CAROL