Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet Declares Today, May 19, 'Stephen Schwartz Day'

Desert Theatre Ensemble Company today announced that Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet has declared today, May 19 to be recognized as "Stephen Schwartz Day".

Stephen Schwartz, the  three-time Academy Award-winning legendary Broadway composer of WICKED, GODSPELL, PIPPIN, the film "Prince of Egypt" and more, will be appearing in Palm Springs to receive the inaugural Melpomai Award from DETC on May 19 in  “When You Believe: A Conversation With and Tribute To Stephen Schwartz.” The event will be held at the Anneberg Theatre at the Art Museum in Palm Springs and starst at 8:00 p.m.

“The City of Palm Springs is thrilled to recognize composer Stephen Schwartz for his outstanding achievements in the entertainment industry,” said Mayor Steve Pougnet. “Stephen is a show business legend whose music has touched the lives of millions of fans. On behalf of the citizens of Palm Springs, I am proud to proclaim May 19 Stephen Schwartz Day in Palm Springs.” 

Schwartz will be presented the award by fellow Oscar winner and long time friend Dean Pitchford (FAME, FOOTLOOSE and more). Broadway legend Andrea McArdle (the original Broadway ANNIE) and Kate Flannery from NBC's Emmy Award winning sitcom "The Office" will be headlining the entertainment portion of the evening. They will be joined by Pamla Vale Abramson, Melissa Batalles, Garrett Hoy, Ben Reece and Laura L. Thomas. Joel Baker will be the accompanist.

Schwartz will be interviewed live onstage about his career, interspersed by performances of his stage and movie musical hits. The evening will be directed and moderated by Broadway veteran and award-winning actor Scott Logsdon (LES MISERABLES). There will be surprise celebrity tributes and appearances during the celebration.

“Stephen Schwartz is a legend of American Theater,” said DETC Co-Artistic Director Tony Padilla. “We are proud to present this celebration of his career.”

DETC presents classic and contemporary performances reflecting both the voice of the Coachella Valley and national trends in the arts. Through productions and arts outreach, DETC entertains, educates and inspires Coachella Valley residents.

Tickets for “When You Believe: A Conversation With and Tribute To Stephen Schwartz” are available through the Annenberg Theater, 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs. Tickets cost $55, $65 and $75. The Annenberg Theater box office can be reached at (760) 325-4490 or online at www.psmuseum.org.