Tony Award-winning composer to be honored at SOPAC

Stephen Schwartz

SOUTH ORANGE, NJ — American Theater Group, the professional theater company in-residence at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, will honor Tony Award-winning Broadway and Hollywood composer Stephen Schwartz at its gala benefit on Sunday, April 29, at 6 p.m. at the SOPAC Loft, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange.

Schwartz’s accomplishments include award-winning Broadway shows such as “Godspell,” “Pippin” and the worldwide sensation “Wicked.” He has won Academy Awards for his work on such films as “Pocahontas,” “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” “The Prince of Egypt” and “Enchanted.”

A prolific composer, Schwartz was ATG’s founding artistic adviser for its New American Musical Reading Series, and will be receiving ATG’s Inaugural New Works/New Voices Award for his contribution to the nurturing of new writers for the American Musical Theater.

As part of the evening’s program, top Broadway talent will pay homage to the legendary composer. Many of his iconic songs will be performed, several of the East Coast’s premier magicians will stroll and delight the crowd, and attendees will get a sneak preview from ATG’s upcoming production of the world premiere musical “Small Town Story.”

In addition to the various performances and entertainment, guests will have the opportunity to bid on unique silent auction items, such as house seats and backstage tours to Broadway shows, weekend stays at luxury Bed and Breakfast Inns, and a personalized at-home magic show.

Tickets include light bites, sweet treats, an open bar and entertainment. All proceeds of the evening’s event will provide support to the American Theater Group. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.americantheatergroup.org.