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Fred Ebb Headshot

Fred Ebb

Date of Death: September 11, 2004 (71)

Birth Place: USA

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BIO

As a writer, lyricist, composer and director, Fred Ebb made incalculable contributions to the New York theatrical community. Mr. Ebb is a Tony, Grammy, Emmy, Olivier and Kennedy Center Honors Lifetime Achievement Award winning recipient. Fred Ebb's first professional songwriting assignment came in 1953 when he and Phil Springer were hired by Columbia Records to write a song for Judy Garland called "Heartbroken." Mr. Ebb was introduced to composer John Kander in 1964 by music publisher Tommy Valando and became one of the most legendary songwriting teams in American history. The first successful collaboration was on the song "My Coloring Book," recorded by Barbra Streisand. Their second theatrical collaboration, Flora, the Red Menace, created a star out of Liza Minnelli in her Tony Award-winning Broadway debut. In 1966, their collaboration Cabaret, opened and received seven Tony Awards including Best Musical and Best Score. A 1972 movie version of Cabaret starring Liza Minnelli was nominated for 10 Academy Awards and won eight awards and was nominated for nine Golden Globe Awards and won three including Best Picture, Musical or Comedy. The same year, the songwriting team wrote a number of songs for Minnelli's television special "Liza With a Z," which received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Single Program - Variety or Popular Music. In 1975, the two wrote the Broadway musical Chicago, directed by Bob Fosse and starring Gwen Verdon, Chita Rivera and Jerry Orbach. The musical was successfully revived 20 years later at City Center ENCORES! and subsequently transferred to Broadway where it is currently the longest running revival in Broadway history. In 1977, the team collaborated with Martin Scorsese on the movie New York, New York; the title song was introduced by Minnelli and later recorded by Frank Sinatra becoming the unofficial theme song of New York City. The Minnelli Broadway vehicle The Act also opened that year. After a four-year absence, Mr. Ebb and Mr. Kander returned with Woman of the Year (1981), The Rink (1984), Kiss of the Spiderwoman (1985) and Steel Pier (1997). They were honored by the Kennedy Center with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1998. Miramax's 2002 feature film Chicago was nominated for 13 Academy Awards and won six, including Best Picture and was nominated for eight Golden Globe Awards and won three, including Best Picture, Musical or Comedy.


STAGE CREDITS

[Off-Off-Broadway]
Concert [Off-Off-Broadway], 1973
Performer

Productions

 
[West End, 2021]
Lyrics
 
[Broadway, 2015]
Lyrics
 
[West End, 2014]
Music and Lyrics
 
[Williamstown, MA (Regional), 2014]
Lyrics
 
[Broadway, 2014]
Music and Lyrics
 
[West End, 2006] [Replacement]
Lyrics[Replacement]
 
[Broadway, 1999]
Director
 
[Off-Broadway, 1967]
Additional Material

Writing

Lyricist
Bookwriter
Lyricist
Lyricist
Additional Material
Lyricist
Bookwriter
Lyricist
Lyricist
Lyricist
Lyricist
Lyricist
Bookwriter
Lyricist
Lyricist
Author
Lyricist
Bookwriter
Lyricist
Lyricist
Lyricist
Lyricist
Lyricist
Lyricist
Lyricist

Awards and Nominations

Drama Desk Awards - 2015 - Outstanding Lyrics

Fred Ebb, The Visit

Tony Awards - 2015 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Fred Ebb, The Visit

Tony Awards - 2011 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Fred Ebb, The Scottsboro Boys


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2010 - Outstanding Lyrics

Fred Ebb, The Scottsboro Boys

Drama Desk Awards - 2010 - Outstanding Music

Fred Ebb, The Scottsboro Boys

Drama Desk Awards - 2007 - Outstanding Lyrics

Fred Ebb, Curtains


winner
Drama League Awards - 2007 - Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre

Fred Ebb

Tony Awards - 2007 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Fred Ebb, Curtains


winner
Helen Hayes Awards - 1999 - The American Express Tribute

Fred Ebb

Tony Awards - 1997 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Fred Ebb, Steel Pier


winner
New York Drama Critics Circle Awards - 1993 - Best Musical

Fred Ebb, Kiss of the Spider Woman


winner
Tony Awards - 1993 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Fred Ebb, Kiss of the Spider Woman

Tony Awards - 1984 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Fred Ebb, The Rink


winner
Tony Awards - 1981 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Fred Ebb, Woman of the Year

Olivier Awards - 1979 - Musical of the Year

Fred Ebb, Chicago

Tony Awards - 1978 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Fred Ebb, The Act

Tony Awards - 1976 - Best Book of a Musical

Fred Ebb , Chicago

Tony Awards - 1976 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Fred Ebb, Chicago


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1969 - Outstanding Lyrics

Fred Ebb, Zorba

Tony Awards - 1968 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Fred Ebb, The Happy Time


winner
New York Drama Critics Circle Awards - 1967 - Best Musical

Fred Ebb, Cabaret


winner
Tony Awards - 1967 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Fred Ebb, Cabaret

Videos

News


Photos: Eva Noblezada & Orville Peck Get Into CABARET Costume
by Michael Major - Feb 26, 2025

A first look at Eva Noblezada and Orville Peck in Cabaret has been revealed. The production has shared first look photos of the pair in costume, teasing a first look at Peck without his iconic mask on.
Jason Kravits to Host The 40th Annual Bistro Awards Gala
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 26, 2025

The 40th Annual Bistro Awards Gala will honor Grammy Award-nominated jazz-cabaret singer Sandy Stewart, and more. Learn more about the awards and see how to attend.
CABARET To Open 2025 Season at NJT
by A.A. Cristi - Feb 26, 2025

NJT will open its 27th season with the classic musical Cabaret, running March 20 through April 6. Directed by NJT's Artistic Director Rebekah Scallet in her first musical production for the theatre,
Ellen Harvey to Join CABARET on Broadway as 'Fraulein Schneider'
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 24, 2025

Ellen Harvey will return to Broadway as ‘Fraulein Schneider’ in Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club at the August Wilson Theatre starting Monday, March 31. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.
Joriah Kwamé and More Named as 2024 Jonathan Larson Grant Recipients
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 24, 2025

The American Theatre Wing has revealed the recipients of the 2024 Jonathan Larson Grant, the annual prize awarded to exceptional emerging musical theatre composers, lyricists, and librettists, or writing teams. Learn more!
Jessica Vosk, Lesli Margherita, Ethan Slater, and More Join CLASSICS GONE MAD!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 24, 2025

Classic Stage Company will present the 2025 iteration of Classics Gone Mad!, a benefit event hosted by stage and screen star Nina West, featuring Jessica Vosk, Lesli Margherita, Ethan Slater and more. Learn how to purchase tickets.
All-City Musical To Present CHICAGO: Teen Edition
by A.A. Cristi - Feb 22, 2025

All-City Musical has announced its much-anticipated return to the stage with a dazzling production of CHICAGO. This remarkable showcase of student talent will take place at the Mimi Ohio Theatre at Playhouse Square, from Friday, March 21 through Sunday, March 23, 2025.
Kim David Smith New Album MOSTLY MARLENE to be Released in March
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 21, 2025

KIM DAVID SMITH will release the new album Mostly Marlene in digital and streaming platforms on Friday, March 21. Learn more!
CABARET to Launch NJT Launches 27th Season in March
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 21, 2025

NJT will open its 27th season with a bold and immersive production of the classic musical Cabaret in March. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.
CABARET to be Presented at 5-Star Theatricals in March
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 18, 2025

5-STAR THEATRICALS will present the first production of its 2025 season, CABARET, book by Joe Masteroff, music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb. Learn more about the production and see how to purchase tickets.
Video: Adam Lambert Performs 'I Don't Care Much' From CABARET on THE VIEW
by Josh Sharpe - Feb 17, 2025

During a visit to The View on Monday, Cabaret star Adam Lambert took the stage to perform his rendition of I Don't Care Much from the current revival. During his visit, the performer also shared why the show continues to remain timely. Watch his appearance here!
Dylis Croman and Rema Webb Will Join the Cast of CHICAGO
by Stephi Wild - Feb 13, 2025

The Broadway company of Chicago will welcome back Dylis Croman in the role of “Roxie Hart” and will welcome to the cell block Rema Webb in the role of “Matron Mama Morton” for a limited run beginning Monday, February 24.
Review: THE RINK at TheatreZone
by Elizabeth James - Feb 12, 2025

TheatreZone's production of THE RINK is an engaging and well-executed theatrical experience. With excellent lighting, dynamic choreography, and impressive vocal performances, this production brings to life the lesser-known but layered musical by John Kander and Fred Ebb.
LIZA: A TRULY TERRIFIC ABSOLUTELY TRUE STORY to Air on PBS
by Josh Sharpe - Feb 11, 2025

Discover the life of Broadway legend Liza Minnelli in 'Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story,' premiering on PBS April 1 at 9 PM ET as part of the American Masters series. The documentary explores Minnelli's 1970s career and personal life with insights from friends and mentors.
Student Blog Introduction: Joe Shoen
by Student Blogger: Joe Shoen - Feb 11, 2025

Meet Joe Shoen, One of our student bloggers for the Fall/Winter season! Read about his experience in the performing arts and learn about the newest production he has taken on.
Video: Adam Lambert Performs 'I Don't Care Much' From CABARET on THE TONIGHT SHOW
by Stephi Wild - Feb 11, 2025

Adam Lambert recently appeared on The Tonight Show to perform 'I Don't Care Much' from Cabaret. In December, Lambert released his version of the song as a single, with an accompanying music video. Watch the video here!
Lucille Lortel Theatre Reveals 2025 Round Of 121 Project Supported Musicals
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 7, 2025

The Lucille Lortel Theatre has revealed that four new musicals will receive support through the 121 Project, the Lortel's tailored development program for new musical works. Learn more!
KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN to Hold Private Screening for International Distributors
by Josh Sharpe - Feb 7, 2025

Following its world premiere at Sundance, Kiss of the Spider Woman is continuing to look for a distributor. The Jennifer Lopez-led musical film will hold a private screening next week for potential buyers in Berlin.
Interview: How Director Bruce David Klein Captured the Real Liza Minnelli for His New Documentary
by Josh Sharpe - Feb 4, 2025

With the new Liza Minnelli documentary now in theaters, BroadwayWorld sat down with director Bruce David Klein to discuss his approach to the film, his relationship with Liza the person, and why he is drawn to the world of show business.
JAXX Theatricals to Present CABARET in March
by Blair Ingenthron - Feb 2, 2025

JAXX THEATRICALS will present CABARET, an American musical classic with book by Joe Masteroff, music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb. The show will be directed by Sasha Travis.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many shows has Fred Ebb written?

Fred Ebb has written 34 shows including By Jupiter (Additional Material), Put It in Writing (Material), Morning Sun (Bookwriter), Flora, the Red Menace (Lyricist), Go Fly a Kite (Lyricist), Cabaret (Lyricist), The Happy Time (Lyricist), Zorba (Lyricist), 70, Girls, 70 (Bookwriter), An Evening with Fred Ebb and John Kander (Lyricist), Liza (Bookwriter), Chicago (Bookwriter), Shirley MacLaine (Bookwriter), 2 by 5 (Lyricist), The Act (Lyricist), The Madwoman of Central Park West (Lyricist), Woman of the Year (Lyricist), The Rink (Lyricist), Diamonds (Lyricist), How Lucky Can You Get? (Lyricist), And the World Goes 'Round (Lyricist), Kiss of the Spider Woman (Lyricist), Steel Pier (Lyricist), Over and Over (Lyricist), Fosse (Lyricist), Minnelli on Minnelli (Bookwriter), The Visit (Lyricist), Barbara Cook's Broadway! (Lyricist), Curtains (Lyricist), Chita Rivera: The Dancer's Life (Lyricist), First You Dream: The Music of Kander & Ebb (Lyricist), The Scottsboro Boys (Lyricist), Come Fly Away (Lyricist), New York, New York (Lyrics).

What awards has Fred Ebb been nominated for?

Fred Ebb has been nominated for several awards throughout his career. Some of his notable nominations include Outstanding Lyrics at the Drama Desk Awards for "The Visit," Best Original Score at the Tony Awards for "The Visit" and "The Scottsboro Boys," Outstanding Music and Outstanding Lyrics at the Drama Desk Awards for "The Scottsboro Boys," Outstanding Lyrics at the Drama Desk Awards for "Curtains," Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre at the Drama League Awards, Best Original Score at the Tony Awards for "Curtains," The American Express Tribute at the Helen Hayes Awards, Best Original Score at the Tony Awards for "Steel Pier," Best Musical at the New York Drama Critics Circle Awards for "Kiss of the Spider Woman," Best Original Score at the Tony Awards for "Kiss of the Spider Woman," Best Original Score at the Tony Awards for "The Rink," Best Original Score at the Tony Awards for "Woman of the Year," Musical of the Year at the Olivier Awards for "Chicago," Best Original Score at the Tony Awards for "The Act," Best Book of a Musical at the Tony Awards for "Chicago," Best Original Score at the Tony Awards for "Chicago," Outstanding Lyrics at the Drama Desk Awards for "Zorba," Best Original Score at the Tony Awards for "The Happy Time," Best Musical at the New York Drama Critics Circle Awards for "Cabaret," and Best Original Score at the Tony Awards for "Cabaret."

What awards has Fred Ebb won?

Fred Ebb has won several awards throughout his career. He received the Outstanding Lyrics award at the Drama Desk Awards for his work on The Scottsboro Boys. He was also honored with the Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre award at the Drama League Awards. The Helen Hayes Awards presented him with The American Express Tribute. Ebb's musical Kiss of the Spider Woman won the Best Musical award at the New York Drama Critics Circle Awards, and he was also recognized with the Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre award at the Tony Awards for this production. Additionally, Ebb won the Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre award at the Tony Awards for Woman of the Year. He received the Outstanding Lyrics award at the Drama Desk Awards for Zorba. Lastly, Ebb's musical Cabaret won the Best Musical award at the New York Drama Critics Circle Awards, and he was honored with the Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre award at the Tony Awards for this production as well.

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