The Broadway Junior Shows of Stephen Schwartz

The celebrated composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz has created some of the most beloved musicals of recent times, including Wicked, Pippin, Godspell, The Baker's Wife and Working.  

He’s picked up three Academy Awards, four Grammy Awards, and a special Tony Award for his commitment to new talent. 

His passion for mentoring young artists and supporting educational initiatives is matched perfectly to Music Theatre International’s (MTI’s) commitment to adapt shows for young performers and provide resources for youth theatre programs. 

Together with MTI, he has been involved in adapting several of his full-length shows for young performers, including Godspell JR, Captain Louie JR, Children of Eden JR and My Son Pinocchio JR. These shows provide age-appropriate material that is both challenging and accessible for young performers, and they have become staples of youth theatre programs around the world.

“I think Musical Theatre as a part of education not only provides performance and teamwork skills, but also provides important life skills such as empathy, community and expanded imagination. I am honoured to have my shows available as a part of MTI's Broadway Junior series and to share my work with a new generation.” Stephen Schwartz said.

Godspell JR. is an adaptation of one of his earliest and most famous musicals, based on the biblical parables of Jesus Christ. Boasting a score with chart-topping songs, this show is designed to be staged in a simple, stripped-down manner that emphasises the message and spirit of the parables. 

Based on the children's book The Trip by Ezra Jack Keats, Captain Louie JR. is a musical about a young boy who moves to a new neighbourhood and must navigate the challenges of making new friends.  

In Disney's My Son Pinocchio JR., the classic tale of toymaker Geppetto's little wooden puppet is given new life as it retells the classic Disney story from Geppetto’s perspective, featuring the beloved classic songs “When You Wish upon a Star” and “I’ve Got No Strings”, alongside a host of new songs by Schwartz.  

Children of Eden JR. is a musical that explores the stories of the Bible's first families, including Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, and Noah and his family, and has been celebrated for its powerful message of family, community, and faith.

Stephen Schwartz's shows for young performers have become beloved staples of youth theatre programs around the world, inspiring generations of young performers to discover the magic of musical theatre and the power of storytelling.

“It was great fun for me to rethink and redesign these shows with a younger cast in mind, and I am excited to see where it takes these young artists.  I encourage all young people to get involved in theatre and to discover the magic of musicals for themselves,” Stephen Schwartz said.

The musicals of Stephen Schwartz can be licensed for performance through Music Theatre International - www.mtishows.com.au.