Elizabeth Swados
Latest News on Elizabeth Swados:
WHERE WE MEET To Play Limited Run At The Cell (Sep 23, 2024)
Recap the 2024 Tony Awards Acceptance Speeches (Jun 16, 2024)
Photos: La MaMa ETC's Great Jones Repertory Company Presents MEDEA (Apr 12, 2024)
WHERE WE MEET To Play Limited Run At The Cell (Sep 23, 2024)
Recap the 2024 Tony Awards Acceptance Speeches (Jun 16, 2024)
Photos: La MaMa ETC's Great Jones Repertory Company Presents MEDEA (Apr 12, 2024)
BIO
Elizabeth Swados was a multi-talented artist who made a significant impact on the world of theater. Born in Buffalo, New York in 1951, Swados began her career in the arts at a young age. She attended Bennington College in Vermont, where she studied music and theater, and later went on to receive a Master of Fine Arts degree from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts.
Swados made her Broadway debut as a composer and lyricist for the musical "Runaways" in 1978. The show was a critical and commercial success, earning Swados a Tony nomination for Best Score. "Runaways" explored the lives of runaway children and featured a diverse cast of performers, many of whom had experienced homelessness themselves. The show's unconventional structure and use of punk rock music made it a groundbreaking work of theater.
Swados continued to work on Broadway throughout the 1980s, contributing music and lyrics to productions like "Alice in Concert" and "Doonesbury." She also wrote and directed her own shows, including "The Haggadah" and "Jerusalem."
In addition to her work on stage, Swados was also a prolific writer and composer for film and television. She wrote the score for the 1982 film "Soup for One" and contributed music to the television series "The Electric Company" and "Sesame Street."
Throughout her career, Swados was known for her commitment to social justice and activism. She used her art to explore issues like homelessness, mental illness, and political oppression. In 1989, she traveled to South Africa to work with young artists and activists as part of a cultural exchange program.
Swados continued to work in the arts until her death in 2016. In 2015, she created a musical adaptation of the novel "The 27th Man" by Nathan Englander, which premiered at The Public Theater in New York City. The show explored the experiences of Jewish writers during the Holocaust and featured an ensemble cast of actors.
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STAGE CREDITS
Productions
Writing
Adaptation
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Bookwriter
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Additional Music
Adaptation
Adaptation
Lyricist
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Music
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Conceiver
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Lyricist
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Lyricist
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Bookwriter/Composer/Lyricist
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Bookwriter
Bookwriter/Composer/Lyricist
Composer/Lyricist
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Bookwriter/Composer/Lyricist
Lyricist
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Awards and Nominations
winner
- 2016 - Hall of Fame Awards
Elizabeth Swados
IT Awards - 2012 - Outstanding Original Music
Elizabeth SwadosUrban Odyssey
Helen Hayes Awards - 1985 - Outstanding Director, Resident Production
Elizabeth SwadosThe Beautiful Lady
Drama Desk Awards - 1978 - Outstanding Director - Musical
Elizabeth Swados, Runaways
Drama Desk Awards - 1978 - Outstanding Lyrics
Elizabeth Swados, Runaways
Drama Desk Awards - 1978 - Outstanding Music
Elizabeth Swados, Runaways
winner
Obie Awards - 1978 - Direction
Elizabeth Swados, Runaways
Tony Awards - 1978 - Best Book of a Musical
Elizabeth Swados, Runaways
Tony Awards - 1978 - Best Choreography
Elizabeth Swados , Runaways
Tony Awards - 1978 - Best Direction of a Musical
Elizabeth Swados, Runaways
Tony Awards - 1978 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre
Elizabeth Swados, Runaways
Drama Desk Awards - 1977 - Outstanding Music
Elizabeth Swados, Nightclub Cantata
winner
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 1977 - Best Musical Contribution
Elizabeth Swados, The Cherry Orchard
winner
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 1977 - Best Musical Contribution
Elizabeth Swados, Nightclub Cantata
winner
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 1977 - Best Musical Contribution
Elizabeth Swados, Agamemnon
Videos
TV: Watch Highlights from the Public Theater's Gala Performance of RUNAWAYS!
by Nicole Rosky - Jun 12, 2018
TV: RUNAWAYS Takes Over the NY City Center Stage for Encores! Off-Center- Watch Highlights!
by Nicole Rosky - Jul 6, 2016
STAGE TUBE: Meet the Diverse 'Wolfpack' of Encores! Off-Center's RUNAWAYS - MJ Rodriguez, Sophia Anne Caruso & More!
by Tyler Peterson - May 25, 2016
News
WHERE WE MEET To Play Limited Run At The Cell
Nancy Manocherian's the cell theatre announced the limited run of WHERE WE MEET, a solo musical by Kate Eberstadt, exploring quantum physics and human experience through music, from September 27-29, 2024.
Nancy Manocherian's the cell theatre announced the limited run of WHERE WE MEET, a solo musical by Kate Eberstadt, exploring quantum physics and human experience through music, from September 27-29, 2024.
Recap the 2024 Tony Awards Acceptance Speeches
The 77th Annual Tony Awards have officially begun! As winners take the stage this evening, stay tuned to BroadwayWorld as we bring you full text of all of the acceptance speeches; from the emotional to the humorous, and everything in between.
The 77th Annual Tony Awards have officially begun! As winners take the stage this evening, stay tuned to BroadwayWorld as we bring you full text of all of the acceptance speeches; from the emotional to the humorous, and everything in between.
Photos: La MaMa ETC's Great Jones Repertory Company Presents MEDEA
La MaMa ETC’s Great Jones Repertory Company joins forces with Director Zishan Ugurlu and experimental media and technology designers CultureHub to tell the story of MEDEA – a refugee whose reality is shattered when she learns of her and her children's looming exile. See photos from tge production here.
La MaMa ETC’s Great Jones Repertory Company joins forces with Director Zishan Ugurlu and experimental media and technology designers CultureHub to tell the story of MEDEA – a refugee whose reality is shattered when she learns of her and her children's looming exile. See photos from tge production here.
2024 ESTROGENIUS FESTIVAL Announces Dance and Theatre Events
Join the 2024 EstroGenius Festival: EXPAND, presented by FRIGID New York and Manhattan Theatre Source. Celebrating womxn, trans and gender non-conforming artists from March 14-30 at various New York venues.
Join the 2024 EstroGenius Festival: EXPAND, presented by FRIGID New York and Manhattan Theatre Source. Celebrating womxn, trans and gender non-conforming artists from March 14-30 at various New York venues.
The Cell Theatre Unveils 2024-2025 Season Featuring Over 20 Resident Artists
Nancy Manocherian's the cell theatre has revealed its 2024-25 season featuring over 20 resident artists, as well as the official Off-Broadway premiere of Matthew LaBanca's Communion.
Nancy Manocherian's the cell theatre has revealed its 2024-25 season featuring over 20 resident artists, as well as the official Off-Broadway premiere of Matthew LaBanca's Communion.
2024 EstroGenius Festival: EXPAND Set For Next Month
FRIGID New York and Manhattan Theatre Source will present the 2024 EstroGenius Festival: EXPAND, a theatre festival celebrating womxn, trans and gender non-conforming artists, March 14-30.
FRIGID New York and Manhattan Theatre Source will present the 2024 EstroGenius Festival: EXPAND, a theatre festival celebrating womxn, trans and gender non-conforming artists, March 14-30.
Jason Gotay, Alyse Alan Louis & More to Star in Michael R. Jackson and Anna K. Jacobs's TEETH
Playwrights Horizons has revealed the cast for the world premiere of TEETH, a new musical by Michael R. Jackson and Anna K. Jacobs. Learn how to purchase tickets!
Playwrights Horizons has revealed the cast for the world premiere of TEETH, a new musical by Michael R. Jackson and Anna K. Jacobs. Learn how to purchase tickets!
Tickets On Sale For Tiresias' CRYPTOCHROME At The Cell
Tickets are now on sale for Evan Silver's latest performance piece, cryptochrome, at the cell theatre in New York City. Described as a mesmerizing sonic odyssey, this unique theatrical experience explores the extraordinary world of the animal kingdom and encourages viewers to immerse themselves in the sensory realms of other living beings.
Tickets are now on sale for Evan Silver's latest performance piece, cryptochrome, at the cell theatre in New York City. Described as a mesmerizing sonic odyssey, this unique theatrical experience explores the extraordinary world of the animal kingdom and encourages viewers to immerse themselves in the sensory realms of other living beings.
The Cell Theater Extends Sold Out COMMUNION Again
COMMUNION, written and performed by Matthew LaBanca has been extended for the second time at the Cell Theater. Based on a true story, the play explores themes of faith, discrimination, and love.
COMMUNION, written and performed by Matthew LaBanca has been extended for the second time at the Cell Theater. Based on a true story, the play explores themes of faith, discrimination, and love.
Interview: Noah Pyzik Shares Why PURLIE VICTORIOUS is 'Church, Group Therapy, Community & Family'
Get an inside look at Noah Pyzik's Broadway debut in Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch. Discover his thoughts on landing the role and what audiences can expect from this hilarious and relevant show.
Get an inside look at Noah Pyzik's Broadway debut in Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch. Discover his thoughts on landing the role and what audiences can expect from this hilarious and relevant show.
The Cell Theater Extends COMMUNION for Additional Week
After selling out all initially scheduled performances, Nancy Manocherian's the cell theatre in association with Spin Cycle will present an additional week of performances of their developmental production of COMMUNION, written and performed by Matthew LaBanca and directed by Kira Simring.
After selling out all initially scheduled performances, Nancy Manocherian's the cell theatre in association with Spin Cycle will present an additional week of performances of their developmental production of COMMUNION, written and performed by Matthew LaBanca and directed by Kira Simring.
COMMUNION Developmental Production to be Presented at The Cell Theatre
Experience the powerful one-man show COMMUNION at the cell theatre. Based on a true story, this developmental production delves into the journey of a gay Catholic school teacher facing discrimination and a crisis of faith. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of love, spirituality, and the fight against LGBTQ discrimination. Get your tickets now!
Experience the powerful one-man show COMMUNION at the cell theatre. Based on a true story, this developmental production delves into the journey of a gay Catholic school teacher facing discrimination and a crisis of faith. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of love, spirituality, and the fight against LGBTQ discrimination. Get your tickets now!
Meet the Cast of PURLIE VICTORIOUS, Beginning Previews on Broadway Tonight!
The first Broadway revival of the American comedy Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch by legendary Ossie Davis will officially open on Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at The Music Box Theatre. Meet the cast of Purlie Victorious here!
The first Broadway revival of the American comedy Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch by legendary Ossie Davis will officially open on Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at The Music Box Theatre. Meet the cast of Purlie Victorious here!
A GAGA GUIDE TO THE LOWER EAST SIDE Extends Through Late August
Discover the immersive theater experience of A GAGA GUIDE TO THE LOWER EAST SIDE, where history and celebrity culture collide. Explore Lady Gaga's Lower East Side and uncover hidden gems in this unique journey through time.
Discover the immersive theater experience of A GAGA GUIDE TO THE LOWER EAST SIDE, where history and celebrity culture collide. Explore Lady Gaga's Lower East Side and uncover hidden gems in this unique journey through time.
PURLIE VICTORIOUS Starring Leslie Odom, Jr. Sets September Opening Night Date on Broadway
The first Broadway revival of the American comedy Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch by legendary Ossie Davis will officially open in September. Learn how to purchase tickets!
The first Broadway revival of the American comedy Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch by legendary Ossie Davis will officially open in September. Learn how to purchase tickets!
Photos: Spin Cycle & JCS Theater Company Present The World Premiere of TRY FOR THE KINGDOM
Spin Cycle & JCS Theater Company present the World Premiere of TRY FOR THE KINGDOM, a new play by Jake Shore (Holy Moly at The Flea), at The Vino Theater in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn. See photos from the production.
Spin Cycle & JCS Theater Company present the World Premiere of TRY FOR THE KINGDOM, a new play by Jake Shore (Holy Moly at The Flea), at The Vino Theater in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn. See photos from the production.
Immersive A GAGA GUIDE TO THE LOWER EAST SIDE Extends Through July 30
Spin Cycle continues the World Premiere of A GAGA GUIDE TO THE LOWER EAST SIDE, a unique immersive theater experience that blends actual historical walking tour, theatrical character monologue and current celebrity worship culture. Performances, which began on Lady Gaga's birthday (March 28) will continue through July 30.
Spin Cycle continues the World Premiere of A GAGA GUIDE TO THE LOWER EAST SIDE, a unique immersive theater experience that blends actual historical walking tour, theatrical character monologue and current celebrity worship culture. Performances, which began on Lady Gaga's birthday (March 28) will continue through July 30.
INCIDENT AT OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP to be Presented at Penguin Rep Theatre This Month
Penguin Rep Theatre will present Incident at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, a new comedy set in the era of bell bottoms, cassette tapes and landline phones by Katie Forgette, directed by Thomas Caruso, June 23 through July 16.
Penguin Rep Theatre will present Incident at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, a new comedy set in the era of bell bottoms, cassette tapes and landline phones by Katie Forgette, directed by Thomas Caruso, June 23 through July 16.
TRY FOR THE KINGDOM World Premiere to Begin Performances at the Vino Theater in July
Spin Cycle & JCS Theater Company will present the World Premiere of TRY FOR THE KINGDOM, a new play by Jake Shore (Holy Moly at The Flea).
Spin Cycle & JCS Theater Company will present the World Premiere of TRY FOR THE KINGDOM, a new play by Jake Shore (Holy Moly at The Flea).
Immersive A GAGA GUIDE TO THE LOWER EAST SIDE Extends Through Late June
Spin Cycle has announced an extension of the World Premiere of A GAGA GUIDE TO THE LOWER EAST SIDE, a unique immersive theater experience that blends actual historical walking tour, theatrical character monologue and current celebrity worship culture.
Spin Cycle has announced an extension of the World Premiere of A GAGA GUIDE TO THE LOWER EAST SIDE, a unique immersive theater experience that blends actual historical walking tour, theatrical character monologue and current celebrity worship culture.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many shows has Elizabeth Swados written?
Elizabeth Swados has written 22 shows including Nightclub Cantata (Composer/Lyricist), Runaways (Bookwriter/Composer/Lyricist), Dispatches (Adaptation), Dispatches (Bookwriter/Composer/Lyricist), The Haggadah (Bookwriter/Composer/Lyricist), Alice in Concert (Composer/Lyricist), The Haggadah, a Passover Cantata (Adaptation), Lullabye and Goodnight (Bookwriter/Composer/Lyricist), Doonesbury (Composer), Rap Master Ronnie (Lyricist), Rap Master Ronnie (Composer), Agamemnon (Conceiver), Hannah Senesh (Additional Music), The Beautiful Lady (Bookwriter), Phaedra Britannica (Composer), Don Juan of Seville (Composer), The Red Sneaks (Bookwriter), Jonah (Adaptation), The Tower of Evil (Composer), Groundhog (Bookwriter), Cymbeline (Composer), The Seagull (Music).
What awards has Elizabeth Swados been nominated for?
Hall of Fame Awards (), Outstanding Original Music (IT Awards) for Urban Odyssey, Outstanding Director, Resident Production (Helen Hayes Awards) for The Beautiful Lady, Outstanding Director - Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Runaways, Outstanding Lyrics (Drama Desk Awards) for Runaways, Outstanding Music (Drama Desk Awards) for Runaways, Direction (Obie Awards) for Runaways, Best Book of a Musical (Tony Awards) for Runaways, Best Choreography (Tony Awards) for Runaways, Best Direction of a Musical (Tony Awards) for Runaways, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Runaways, Outstanding Music (Drama Desk Awards) for Nightclub Cantata, Best Musical Contribution (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for The Cherry Orchard, Best Musical Contribution (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Nightclub Cantata and Best Musical Contribution (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Agamemnon.
What awards has Elizabeth Swados won?
Elizabeth Swados has won several notable awards, including the Hall of Fame Awards. She received the Direction award from the Obie Awards for her work on Runaways. Additionally, Swados has been honored with the Best Musical Contribution award from the Outer Critics Circle Awards for The Cherry Orchard, Nightclub Cantata, and Agamemnon.
Videos