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John Kander

Birth Place: USA

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BIO

American composer John Kander (b. Kansas City, MO, March 18, 1927) is the musical partner of the songwriting team of Kander and Ebb, who together created at least sixteen Broadway shows, Flora the Red Menace (1965), Cabaret (1966), Chicago (1975), and Curtains (2007) among them. They also contributed material to fourteen films and television specials over their forty-year association. Independently John Kander supplied the scores to many films, including Something For Everyone (1970), Kramer vs. Kramer (1979), Places in the Heart (1984), and Billy Bathgate (1991).

Photos

STAGE CREDITS

An Evening with Fred Ebb and John Kander
[Off-Off-Broadway]
Concert [Off-Off-Broadway], 1973
Performer

Productions

CabaretCabaret
 
[West End, 2021]
Music
The VisitThe Visit
 
[Broadway, 2015]
Music
The Scottsboro BoysThe Scottsboro Boys
 
[West End, 2014]
Music and Lyrics
The VisitThe Visit
 
[Williamstown, MA (Regional), 2014]
Music
CabaretCabaret
 
[Broadway, 2014]
Music and Lyrics
GypsyGypsy
 
[Broadway, 2008]
Dance Music Arranger
CabaretCabaret
 
[West End, 2006] [Replacement]
Music[Replacement]
GypsyGypsy
 
[Broadway, 2003]
Dance Music Arranger
Three Men on a Horse
 
[Broadway, 1993]
Musical Director
The Crucible
 
[Broadway, 1991]
Musical Director
Gypsy
 
[Broadway, 1989]
Dance Music Arranger
Gypsy
 
[Broadway, 1974]
Dance Music Arranger
Never Too Late
 
[Broadway, 1962]
Composer
Irma La Douce
 
[US Tour, 1962]
Dance Music
Irma La Douce
 
[Broadway, 1960]
Dance Music
Gypsy
 
[Broadway, 1959]
Rehearsal Pianist
Dance Music Arranger
Irma La Douce
 
[West End, 1958]
Dance Music

Writing

Kid Victory
Music, Story
The Landing
Composer
The Act
Composer
All About Us
Composer
Cabaret
Composer
Chicago
Composer
Curtains
Lyricist
Composer
Diamonds
Composer
A Family Affair
Composer
Bookwriter/Composer/Lyricist
Fosse
Composer
Composer
Liza
Composer
The Rink
Composer
70, Girls, 70
Composer
Composer
Author
Steel Pier
Composer
2 by 5
Composer
Composer
The Visit
Composer
Composer
Zorba
Composer

Awards and Nominations

Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2023 - Outstanding New Score

John Kander, New York, New York

Drama Desk Awards - 2015 - Outstanding Music

John Kander, The Visit

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

John Kander, The Visit

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

John Kander, The Scottsboro Boys

Drama Desk Awards - 2007 - Outstanding Lyrics

John Kander, Curtains

Drama Desk Awards - 2007 - Outstanding Music

John Kander, Curtains


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

John Kander

Olivier Awards - 2007 - Outstanding Musical Production

John Kander, Cabaret

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

John Kander, Curtains


winner
Helen Hayes Awards - 1999 - The American Express Tribute

John Kander


winner
Olivier Awards - 1998 - Outstanding Musical Production

John Kander, Chicago

Drama Desk Awards - 1997 - Outstanding Music

John Kander, Steel Pier

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

John Kander, Steel Pier

Olivier Awards - 1994 - Best Musical Revival

John Kander, Cabaret

Drama Desk Awards - 1993 - Outstanding Music

John Kander , Kiss of the Spider Woman


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

John Kander, Kiss of the Spider Woman

Olivier Awards - 1993 - The American Express Award for Best New Musical

John Kander, Kiss Of The Spider Woman


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

John Kander, Kiss of the Spider Woman

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

John Kander, Kiss of the Spider Woman

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

John Kander, The Rink


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

John Kander, Woman of the Year

Olivier Awards - 1979 - Musical of the Year

John Kander, Chicago

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

John Kander, The Act

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

John Kander, Chicago

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

John Kander, The Happy Time


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

John Kander, Cabaret


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

John Kander, Cabaret

Videos

More Videos

News


CABARET to be Presented at 5-Star Theatricals in March Photo
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: Lin-Manuel Miranda Shares Only Public Performance of Cut HAMILTON Song Photo
Video: Lin-Manuel Miranda Shares Only Public Performance of Cut HAMILTON Song
by Michael Major - Feb 18, 2025

Lin-Manuel Miranda has shared the video of the only public performance of a song cut from Hamilton. The post – which was shared for 'HamilTuesday' in honor of 10 years since the musical debuted – features 'Valley Forge' including Christopher Jackson.
Video: Adam Lambert Performs 'I Don't Care Much' From CABARET on THE VIEW Photo
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!
Signature Theatre to Honor Mandy Patinkin with 2025 Stephen Sondheim Award Photo
Signature Theatre to Honor Mandy Patinkin with 2025 Stephen Sondheim Award
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 14, 2025

Virginia’s Tony Award-winning Signature Theatre will honor star of stage and screen Mandy Patinkin with the company’s fourteenth Stephen Sondheim Award. Learn more!
Dylis Croman and Rema Webb Will Join the Cast of CHICAGO Photo
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.
Cape Town Opera Will Host SHORTS: A Festival Of Short Operas Photo
Cape Town Opera Will Host SHORTS: A Festival Of Short Operas
by Stephi Wild - Feb 12, 2025

After a sold-out season of My Fair Lady at Artscape, Cape Town Opera (CTO), Africa's leading opera company, will host Shorts: A Festival of SHORT Operas!  at The Wave theatre.
Review: THE RINK at TheatreZone Photo
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.
Video: Adam Lambert Performs 'I Don't Care Much' From CABARET on THE TONIGHT SHOW Photo
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!
KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN to Hold Private Screening for International Distributors Photo
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.
JAXX Theatricals to Present CABARET in March Photo
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.
Centre Stage Presents CABARET This March Photo
Centre Stage Presents CABARET This March
by A.A. Cristi - Feb 1, 2025

Centre Stage will present the classic musical CABARET from March 13-30, 2025. Cabaret features a book by Joe Masteroff and is based on the play by John Van Druten and stories by Christopher Isherwood.
CABARET, FROZEN & More Set for 5-Star Theatricals 2025 Season Photo
CABARET, FROZEN & More Set for 5-Star Theatricals 2025 Season
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 31, 2025

STAR THEATRICALS has reveraled its 2025 season of shows!  All of 5-Star’s productions are locally produced, auditioned and rehearsed in Southern California. See the full lineup of shows and learn how to purchase tickets.
Video: Adam Lambert Celebrates His Birthday at CABARET AT THE KIT KAT CLUB Photo
Video: Adam Lambert Celebrates His Birthday at CABARET AT THE KIT KAT CLUB
by Stephi Wild - Jan 30, 2025

Last night, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club and Pride Live/Stonewall National Monument Visitors Center celebrated GRAMMY Award nominee Adam Lambert’s birthday with a special curtain call. Check out a video here!
Sophie Carmen-Jones Will Join CHICAGO on Broadway Photo
Sophie Carmen-Jones Will Join CHICAGO on Broadway
by Stephi Wild - Jan 30, 2025

The Broadway production of Chicago will welcome Sophie Carmen-Jones in the role of “Velma Kelly” beginning Monday, February 10. Learn more about her here!
New Cast Joins Prologue Company of CABARET at the Kit Kat Club Photo
New Cast Joins Prologue Company of CABARET at the Kit Kat Club
by Stephi Wild - Jan 30, 2025

The West End production of CABARET at the KIT KAT CLUB will welcome new members to the show's Prologue Company from 3 February 2025. Learn more about the new cast here!
Jennifer Lopez, Bill Condon & More Talk KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN at Sundance World Pr Photo
Jennifer Lopez, Bill Condon & More Talk KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN at Sundance World Premiere
by Tyler Hinton - Jan 28, 2025

BroadwayWorld was on hand at the Sundance world premiere of KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN on January 26, 2025 and spoke with the creative team and performers on the carpet. Filled with breathtaking intimate moments, and stunningly edited and designed with meaningful visuals, it is a love letter to the classic movie musical that transcends the genre with moving messages about how we can allow ourselves to evolve through acceptance.
Review Roundup: KOWALSKI, Starring Robin Lord Taylor and Brandon Flynn Photo
Review Roundup: KOWALSKI, Starring Robin Lord Taylor and Brandon Flynn
by Nicole Rosky - Jan 28, 2025

Gregg Ostrin’s Kowalski, directed by Colin Hanlon, just celebrated opening night at The Duke on 42nd Street, where it is set to run through February 23, 2025. Check out what the critics are saying about the new play...
Interview: Jeff Harnar Honors NYC With CONFESSIONS OF A NEW YORKER at Birdland Photo
Interview: Jeff Harnar Honors NYC With CONFESSIONS OF A NEW YORKER at Birdland
by Rebecca Kaplan - Jan 28, 2025

On Monday 2/3, Jeff Harnar returns to Birdland with “Confessions of a New Yorker,” an early musical Valentine to NYC featuring the songs of of Cy Coleman, Cole Porter, Leonard Bernstein, Rodgers & Hart, Comden & Green and more.
Erika Jayne Extends Run in CHICAGO on Broadway Photo
Erika Jayne Extends Run in CHICAGO on Broadway
by Stephi Wild - Jan 28, 2025

Erika Jayne has extended her return engagement in Chicago on Broadway! The singer, actress and TV sensation known for Bravo's “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” will play “Roxie Hart” on Broadway for an additional two weeks.
Video: Jennifer Lopez Recalls Auditioning for CHICAGO, EVITA, & More Photo
Video: Jennifer Lopez Recalls Auditioning for CHICAGO, EVITA, & More
by Josh Sharpe - Jan 27, 2025

During the Sundance Film Festival this past weekend, Jennifer Lopez shared that she previously auditioned for film adaptations of Chicago, Evita, and Nine.
More News

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many shows has John Kander written?

John Kander has written 33 shows including A Family Affair (Bookwriter/Composer/Lyricist), Flora, the Red Menace (Composer), Go Fly a Kite (Composer), Cabaret (Composer), The Happy Time (Composer), Zorba (Composer), 70, Girls, 70 (Composer), An Evening with Fred Ebb and John Kander (Composer), Liza (Composer), Chicago (Composer), 2 by 5 (Composer), The Act (Composer), Joe Masiell Not at the Palace (Material), The Madwoman of Central Park West (Composer), Woman of the Year (Composer), The Rink (Composer), Diamonds (Composer), How Lucky Can You Get? (Composer), And the World Goes 'Round (Composer), Kiss of the Spider Woman (Composer), Steel Pier (Composer), Over and Over (Composer), Fosse (Composer), The Visit (Composer), Curtains (Lyricist), Chita Rivera: The Dancer's Life (Composer), First You Dream: The Music of Kander & Ebb (Composer), The Scottsboro Boys (Composer), Come Fly Away (Composer), The Landing (Composer), Kid Victory (Music, Story), The Beast in the Jungle (Composer), New York, New York (Music).

What awards has John Kander been nominated for?

Outstanding New Score (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for New York, New York, Outstanding Music (Drama Desk Awards) for The Visit, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for The Visit, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for The Scottsboro Boys, Outstanding Lyrics (Drama Desk Awards) for Curtains, Outstanding Music (Drama Desk Awards) for Curtains, Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre (Drama League Awards), Outstanding Musical Production (Olivier Awards) for Cabaret, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Curtains, The American Express Tribute (Helen Hayes Awards) for , Outstanding Musical Production (Olivier Awards) for Chicago, Outstanding Music (Drama Desk Awards) for Steel Pier, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Steel Pier, Best Musical Revival (Olivier Awards) for Cabaret, Outstanding Music (Drama Desk Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman, Best Musical (New York Drama Critics Circle Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman, The American Express Award for Best New Musical (Olivier Awards) for Kiss Of The Spider Woman, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for The Rink, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Woman of the Year, Musical of the Year (Olivier Awards) for Chicago, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for The Act, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Chicago, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for The Happy Time, Best Musical (New York Drama Critics Circle Awards) for Cabaret and Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Cabaret.

What awards has John Kander won?

John Kander has received several prestigious awards, including: - Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre (Drama League Awards) - The American Express Tribute (Helen Hayes Awards) - Outstanding Musical Production (Olivier Awards) for Chicago - Best Musical (New York Drama Critics Circle Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Woman of the Year - Best Musical (New York Drama Critics Circle Awards) for Cabaret - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Cabaret

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