Ep50: From Creative Clashes to Creative Genius, How 'Pippin' Became a Broadway Classic

Author Carol de Giere (Defying Gravity) joins the podcast to explore the fascinating history and unsung stories behind Pippin. Hear how Stephen Schwartz developed the show as a student at Carnegie Mellon, about his creative clashes with legendary director Bob Fosse, and how the 2013 revival reimagined the production (and ending) for a new generation. Carol also shares insights into Schwartz’s songwriting process, his musical influences—from Carole King to Paul Simon—and why Pippin remains timeless over 50 years after its premiere. Carol de Giere is the author of Defying Gravity: The Creative Career of Stephen Schwartz, from Godspell to Wicked, an in-depth biography chronicling the life and work of the legendary composer. Through extensive interviews with Schwartz and his collaborators, she provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind iconic musicals like Godspell, Pippin, and Wicked. Carol is also the creator of The Schwartz Scene, an online newsletter dedicated to fans of Stephen Schwartz’s work. Love what you hear on the podcast? Join the pod squad by joining our online community! Dive deeper into the episodes, share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with fellow listeners. Visit https://beltlinetobroadway.org/register-2/ to join our theater fam. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices