Commentary Lyrics – Stephen Schwartz

Stephen Schwartz: The Mastermind Behind "Wicked"

Stephen Schwartz, one of Broadway’s most revered composers and lyricists, is synonymous with musical magic. While he’s created unforgettable works like *Godspell* and *Pippin*, Schwartz's crowning achievement is arguably *Wicked*. This groundbreaking musical reimagines the land of Oz, giving audiences the untold story of Elphaba, the green-skinned girl who defies expectations to become the infamous Wicked Witch of the West. *Wicked* isn’t just a musical—it’s a phenomenon, thanks in large part to Schwartz’s ingenious work. Let’s delve into how he brought this beloved story to life.

The Vision Behind *Wicked*

From the outset, Schwartz was captivated by the idea of retelling *The Wizard of Oz* through the lens of its most misunderstood character. He saw in Gregory Maguire’s novel a tale not just of fantasy, but of identity, resilience, and redemption. Schwartz's challenge was to translate this complex narrative into a cohesive musical, weaving the story’s emotional depth with its epic scope. “We wanted the audience to see Elphaba as both a misunderstood outcast and a powerful figure,” Schwartz explained. “The music had to embody her transformation, from a girl yearning for acceptance to a woman standing defiantly in her truth.”

Crafting the Music of *Wicked*

Schwartz’s approach to *Wicked* was rooted in thematic motifs—musical ideas that recur throughout the show to represent characters or emotions. These motifs create a rich, interwoven tapestry that deepens the storytelling.

• The Witch’s Theme: Introduced in the opening moments of the show, this ominous fanfare in a minor key represents how others perceive Elphaba: dangerous and malevolent. With bold brass and unsettling harmonies, it sets the tone for the prejudice she faces.
• The Unlimited Theme: Elphaba’s personal motif is one of aspiration and hope. Inspired by the first seven notes of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” Schwartz reworked this classic melody into something new, symbolizing Elphaba’s dreams and boundless potential.
• Glinda’s Theme: In contrast, Glinda’s early music is bright, buoyant, and whimsical, capturing her privileged, carefree demeanor. As the story unfolds, her music evolves to reflect her growing depth and empathy.

"Defying Gravity": A Modern Anthem

The centerpiece of *Wicked* is the Act I finale, “Defying Gravity.” This showstopper marks Elphaba’s moment of self-empowerment as she decides to live unapologetically, despite the world’s condemnation. It’s a declaration of independence, resilience, and strength. “‘Defying Gravity’ had to be more than a song—it needed to be a journey,” Schwartz explained. “It starts with uncertainty and builds to triumph, reflecting Elphaba’s transformation.” The song’s structure mirrors this emotional arc. It begins with a tense confrontation between Elphaba and Glinda, underscored by dissonant harmonies. As Elphaba embraces her power, the music soars, propelled by open chords and rising melodies. The iconic refrain—“It’s time to try defying gravity!”—is a literal and metaphorical ascent, as Elphaba takes flight both physically and spiritually.

“To me, the song represents the joy of owning your power, of saying, ‘This is who I am, and I won’t be held down.’”

Stephen Schwartz

The Collaborative Process

While Schwartz’s music is the heart of *Wicked*, he credits the entire creative team for bringing the show to life. Working closely with book writer Winnie Holzman, director Joe Mantello, and choreographer Wayne Cilento, Schwartz ensured that every element of the production served the story. One particularly striking collaboration was with lighting designer Ken Posner, whose work on “Defying Gravity” is often cited as one of Broadway’s most breathtaking moments. As Elphaba rises into the air, bathed in a kaleidoscope of green and gold, the visual spectacle perfectly complements Schwartz’s soaring melody.

“It’s one of those rare moments in theater where everything—music, performance, lighting—comes together to create something truly unforgettable.”

Stephen Schwartz

Thematic Depth

Beyond its spectacular visuals and unforgettable songs, *Wicked* resonates because of its emotional and thematic richness. At its core, it’s a story about challenging stereotypes, finding your voice, and embracing who you are. Schwartz’s music amplifies these themes, making the audience feel Elphaba’s journey on a visceral level. For instance, the reprise of the *Unlimited Theme* in Act II underscores Elphaba’s enduring hope and determination, even as the world turns against her. This recurring motif ties her aspirations to the larger narrative, creating a musical throughline that is as inspiring as it is poignant.

A Cultural Phenomenon

Since its Broadway debut in 2003, *Wicked* has become a global sensation, with productions in over 15 countries and translations into six languages. The cast recording, featuring Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, went multi-platinum, and “Defying Gravity” became an anthem for empowerment, embraced by audiences far beyond the theater. Schwartz reflected, “There’s something universal about the story. We all want to feel seen and valued for who we are. That’s what Elphaba’s journey is about, and I think that’s why it resonates.”

Stephen Schwartz's Legacy

While Stephen Schwartz has an illustrious career spanning decades, *Wicked* stands out as his most significant achievement. It’s a testament to his ability to combine soaring melodies, intricate harmonies, and profound storytelling into a cohesive and unforgettable experience. Through *Wicked*, Schwartz has not only redefined the musical theater landscape but also inspired generations to embrace their uniqueness and defy their own gravity. As Elphaba herself declares, “No wizard that there is or was is ever gonna bring me down.” It’s a sentiment that captures both her story and the enduring power of Stephen Schwartz’s music.