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Eric Schaeffer

Also Credited As: Eric D. Schaeffer

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BIO

Eric Schaeffer is the Co-founder and Artistic Director of Arlington’s Signature Theatre. Under his leadership, the Theatre was honored with the 2009 Tony Award® for Outstanding Regional Theatre in America, as well as 97 Helen Hayes Awards with an additional 411 nominations for theater excellence in Washington, DC.



At Signature, Schaeffer directed productions including: Titanic; Silver Belles; Georgie: My Adventures with George Rose; Girlstar; The Fix; Elmer Gantry; Cloak and Dagger; Beaches; Miss Saigon; Crossing; Hello, Dolly! (Ford’s Theatre co-production); The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas; Brother Russia; Hairspray; Sunset Boulevard; Chess; Show Boat; First You Dream: The Music of Kander & Ebb; The Hollow; Les Misérables; ACE; Kiss of the Spider Woman; Glory Days; The Witches of Eastwick; Saving Aimee; Into the Woods; My Fair Lady; Nevermore; The Highest Yellow; One Red Flower; Allegro; Twentieth Century; 110 in the Shade; Hedwig and the Angry Inch; The Gospel According to Fishman; Grand Hotel; The Rhythm Club; Over & Over; The Fix; Working; The Rink; Cabaret; First Lady Suite; Wings; Poor Superman; Unidentified Human Remains and the True Nature of Love; and the Sondheim musicals Merrily We Roll Along, Sunday in the Park with George (Arena Stage co-production), Passion, Into the Woods, Company, Assassins, Sweeney Todd, Follies and Pacific Overtures, among others.

On Broadway, Schaeffer directed Gigi, the critically acclaimed Follies as well as the Tony Award®-winning Million Dollar Quartet, Glory Days and Putting It Together. His national tours include Million Dollar Quartet and Big. Off-Broadway, he has directed Sweet Adeline (City Center Encores! Great American Musicals in Concert) and Under the Bridge. His West End credits include Million Dollar Quartet and The Witches of Eastwick.

Eric’s regional credits include Drury Lane: Beaches; Ford’s Theatre: Meet John Doe; Goodman: Million Dollar Quartet; Apollo Theatre: Million Dollar Quartet; Mark Taper Forum: Putting It Together (w/ Carol Burnett); Chicago: Elmer Gantry; Los Angeles: Disney’s Snow White. For the Kennedy Center, Schaeffer served as the Artistic Director of the acclaimed Sondheim Celebration in 2002 as well as directing its productions of Sunday in the Park with George and Passion. At the Kennedy Center, he also directed Follies starring Bernadette Peters, Mame starring Christine Baranski, First You Dream: The Music of Kander & Ebb and Gigi starring Vanessa Hudgens. Overseas, Eric directed Sweeney Todd in Seoul, South Korea with the OD Company.

In 2006, Schaeffer created Signature’s musical theater commissioning program, the American Musical Voices Project (AMVP), in partnership with the New York-based Ted & Mary Jo Shen Charitable Gift Fund, to commission and produce new musicals for the American theater canon. Since that time, AMVP has grown to become the largest musical theater commissioning program in the country, providing writers and composers a creative, fertile ground to develop original musicals. Since the program was launched, Signature has commissioned 18 new musicals from composers such as Michael John LaChiusa, Ricky Ian Gordon, Joseph Thalken, Adam Guettel, Jeanine Tesori, Josh Schmidt and Joshua Rosenblum, among others.

Schaeffer earned his BFA from Kutztown University in Pennsylvania, where he received an Honorary Doctorate in 2012. He also received an Honorary Doctorate of Arts from Shenandoah University in 2014.

Photos

Productions

 
[Arlington, VA (Regional), 2020]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 2017]
Scenic Designer
Director
 
[Chicago (Regional), 2015]
Director
 
[Washington, DC (Regional), 2015]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 2014]
Director
 
[Arlington, VA (Regional), 2014]
Director
 
[US Tour, 2011]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2011]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 2011]
Director
 
[Washington, DC (Regional), 2011]
Director
 
[West End, 2011]
Director
 
[Broadway, 2010]
Director
 
[Arlington, VA (Regional), 2009]
Director
Scenic Designer
 
[Arlington, VA (Regional), 2008]
Director

Movies

My Life's in Turnaround
[ 1993 ] Splick
If Lucy Fell
[ 1996 ] Joe MacGonaughgill
Fall
[ 1997 ] Michael
Gunshy
[ 1998 ] Gwynne
Wirey Spindell
[ 1999 ] Wirey Spindell
One Night at McCool's
[ 2001 ] Greg Spradling
Never Again
[ 2001 ] producer
Marmalade
[ 2004 ] Dan
Spanglish
[ 2004 ] Rabid Sports Fan
Mind the Gap
[ 2004 ] Sam Blue
Adventureland
[ 2009 ] Foreigner Tribute Band Member
After Fall, Winter
[ 2011 ] Michael
They're Out of the Business
[ 2011 ] Splick
Eric Schaeffer: Life Coach
[ 2012 ] writer
Boy Meets Girl
[ 2014 ] director
Before I Go
[ 2021 ] producer

TV Shows

New York Daze
Eric McDougal

Awards and Nominations

Helen Hayes Awards - 2015 - Outstanding Director of a Musical, HAYES Production

Eric SchaefferBeaches

Helen Hayes Awards - 2014 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferHello, Dolly!

Drama Desk Awards - 2012 - Outstanding Director of a Musical

Eric Schaeffer, Follies

Helen Hayes Awards - 2012 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferHairspray

Helen Hayes Awards - 2011 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferChess


winner
Helen Hayes Awards - 2009 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferLes Misérables

Helen Hayes Awards - 2009 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferAce: The New Musical Adventure

Helen Hayes Awards - 2009 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferKiss of the Spider Woman


winner
Helen Hayes Awards - 2008 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferMeet John Doe

Helen Hayes Awards - 2008 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric Schaeffer The Witches of Eastwick

Helen Hayes Awards - 2006 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferPacific Overtures


winner
Helen Hayes Awards - 2005 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferAllegro

Helen Hayes Awards - 2004 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric Schaeffer11 in the Shade

Helen Hayes Awards - 2004 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferFollies

Helen Hayes Awards - 2003 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferSunday in the Park with George

Helen Hayes Awards - 2003 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric Schaefferhe Gospel According to Fishman

Helen Hayes Awards - 2002 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferPutting It Together

Helen Hayes Awards - 2001 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferThe Rhythm Club

Helen Hayes Awards - 2000 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferSweeney Todd

Helen Hayes Awards - 1999 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferThe Fix

Helen Hayes Awards - 1998 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferSunday in the Park with George


winner
Helen Hayes Awards - 1997 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferPassion

Helen Hayes Awards - 1997 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferThe Rink

Helen Hayes Awards - 1996 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferCabaret

Helen Hayes Awards - 1995 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferInto the Woods

Helen Hayes Awards - 1995 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferWings

Helen Hayes Awards - 1994 - Outstanding Director, Resident Production

Eric SchaefferUnidentified Human Remains and the 1 Nature of Love


winner
Helen Hayes Awards - 1993 - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical

Eric SchaefferAssasins


winner
Helen Hayes Awards - 1992 - Outstanding Director, Resident Production

Eric SchaefferSweeny Todd

Videos

News


Christmas Films Adapted For the Stage

Whether you're into a more serious story like It's a Wonderful Life or A Christmas Carol, or something more silly and fun like Elf or How the Grinch Stole Christmas, there is a Christmas movie-turned-musical for everyone who celebrates!
Claybourne Elder to Perform for One Night Only at Signature Theatre

Signature Theatre will present a one-night engagement of Claybourne Elder Cabaret. Learn how to purchase tickets!
THAT'S WHAT FRIENDS ARE FOR: NOVA Y. PAYTON SINGS BURT BACHARACH to Begin at Signature Theatre in January

Performances of That’s What Friends Are For: Nova Y. Payton Sings Burt Bacharach begin in less than one month at Signature Theatre.
The Blue Moon Theatre To Present A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS and THE LITTLE TOWN OF CHRISTMAS

Ring in the holidays with a double feature for the whole family! Enjoy 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' and 'The Little Town of Christmas' at The Blue Moon Theatre from December 8-10, 2023. Don't miss this heartwarming and funny holiday show.
BOTH SIDES NOW: Joni Mitchell And Leonard Cohen Extended at Signature Theatre

Signature Theatre will present a one-week extension of Both Sides Now: Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen, now running December 5 through December 23.
Cast Set for HOW SWEET IT IS: THE MEN OF SOUL CABARET at Signature Theatre

Get ready for an unforgettable night of soulful music as Signature Theatre announces the cast for How Sweet It Is: The Men Of Soul Cabaret. Join Isaac 'Deacon Izzy' Bell and Derrick D. Truby Jr. for a tribute to the legendary Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding, and more.
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS to Kick Off The Holidays At Way Off Broadway

Get into the holiday spirit with Way Off Broadway's presentation of A Charlie Brown Christmas. This live stage adaptation of the beloved television classic brings Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the Peanuts gang to life. Don't miss this festive production at Way Off Broadway.
Bill English, Nkrumah Gatling, Teal Wicks & More to Star in RAGTIME at Signature Theatre

Signature Theatre has revealed the cast and creative team for the epic musical Ragtime, with book by Terrence McNally, music by Stephen Flaherty, and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens. See who is starring and learn how to purchase tickets!
Signature Theatre Announces Cast & Creative Team of KING OF THE YEES

Signature Theatre has announced the cast and creative team for the play King of the Yees, written by Lauren Yee (Cambodian Rock Band, The Great Leap) and directed by Jennifer Chang (Round House's The Great Leap, LA Opera's On Golden Mountain). Performances run September 12 – October 22, 2023 in Signature's ARK Theatre.
The Peanuts Gang Comes To Ford Wyoming Center In A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS LIVE ON STAGE

Just in time for the holiday season, the Peanuts gang will be coming to the Ford Wyoming Center on Sunday, November 12 in A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage.
BEACHES THE MUSICAL Will Make International Premiere at Theatre Calgary

The international premiere of Beaches the Musical as the final show of Theatre Calgary's upcoming 2023-24 season. Find out whats new about this newest version of the musical, which had previous runs in DC and Chicago.
Kaiyla Gross & Tobias A. Young to Present DISCO FEVER Concert at Signature Theatre This Summer

Signature Theatre favorites Kaiyla Gross and Tobias A. Young will perform in Disco Fever, a syncopated celebration of the music of Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, Diana Ross and more. Learn how to purchase tickets!
Signature Theatre Announces Cast For SOUL DIVAS Reprise Cabaret

Signature Theatre announces that Signature favorites Awa Sal Secka (Gun and Powder, Blackbeard) and Shayla S. Simmons (After Midnight, Dreamgirls) will perform in Soul Divas Reprise, inspired by the sold-out cabaret from 2019 dedicated to the music of acclaimed musical divas from Aretha to Whitney to Tina. The cabaret will be music directed by Mark G. Meadows, Signature's Director of Cabarets. Soul Divas Reprise runs June 27 – July 9 in Signature's ARK Theatre.
PRIVATE JONES World Premiere, THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY & More Set for Signature Theatre 2023/24 Season

Signature Theatre has announced its 34th season, featuring six musicals and one play in a season lineup that includes one world premiere and three DC premieres. Learn how to purchase tickets.
Signature Theatre is Accepting Submissions For SIGWORKS: MONDAY NIGHT NEW PLAY READING SERIES

Signature Theatre will continue its commitment to new work by presenting the eighth annual SigWorks: Monday Night New Play Readings. Under the leadership of Signature's Director of Artistic Development Anika Chapin, this initiative highlights and supports the work of DMV playwrights and is an opportunity for playwrights, actors, directors, designers, and patrons to explore new plays in a fun and informal environment.
Nathaniel Stampley & Bryonha Marie to Lead SWEENEY TODD at Signature Theatre

Signature Theatre has announced the cast and creative team for the musical Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, with music & lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by Hugh Wheeler.
Megan Hilty & Lea Salonga to Star in BROADWAY IN THE PARK at the Filene Center

Signature Theatre and Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts announced the cast for the third annual musical theater collaboration, Broadway In The Park. See who is starring, and learn how to purchase tickets!
Cast & Creative Team Set for PASSING STRANGE at Signature Theatre

Signature Theatre has announced the cast and creative team for the musical Passing Strange, with music by Stew and Heidi Rodewald and book & lyrics by Stew.
ASSASSINS Walking Tour & More Added to SO MANY POSSIBILITIES: A SEASON OF SONDHEIM Events at Signature

Signature Theatre is continuing its season-long tribute to Signature’s signature, Stephen Sondheim, with three new events.
Brian Stokes Mitchell, Jessie Mueller & More to Honor Chita Rivera at Signature Theatre Gala

On April 3, 2023, Virginia’s Tony Award-winning Signature Theatre will honor the theatrical icon Chita Rivera with the company’s twelfth Stephen Sondheim Award. See performers and more!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What awards has Eric Schaeffer been nominated for?

Outstanding Director of a Musical, HAYES Production (Helen Hayes Awards) for Beaches, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Hello, Dolly!, Outstanding Director of a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Follies, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Hairspray , Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Chess, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Les Misérables , Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Ace: The New Musical Adventure , Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman , Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Meet John Doe , Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for The Witches of Eastwick, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Pacific Overtures, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Allegro , Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for 110 in the Shade, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Follies , Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Sunday in the Park with George, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for he Gospel According to Fishman, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Putting It Together, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for The Rhythm Club, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Sweeney Todd, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for The Fix, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Sunday in the Park with George, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Passion, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for The Rink, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Cabaret, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Into the Woods, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Wings, Outstanding Director, Resident Production (Helen Hayes Awards) for Unidentified Human Remains and the 1 Nature of Love, Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Assasins and Outstanding Director, Resident Production (Helen Hayes Awards) for Sweeny Todd.

What awards has Eric Schaeffer won?

Eric Schaeffer has won the following awards: - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Les Misérables - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Meet John Doe - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Allegro - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Passion - Outstanding Director, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for Assassins - Outstanding Director, Resident Production (Helen Hayes Awards) for Sweeney Todd.

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