Stephen Schwartz is a living legend, and I had the incredible honor of receiving the Stephen Schwartz award from him last night at the Dramatist Guild Foundation’s annual gala. I’m still pinching myself. He is not only a huge inspiration on my work and of so many writers old and new, but also just the kindest man. My adrenaline was so high when I got onstage to thank him that I ripped my speech by accident!

I can’t thank him or the Dramatist Guild Foundation enough, as well as the incredible Margo Seibert, who masterfully performed my song “Borderline” from my musical of the same name with book writer Aryanna Garber.

Here’s a video of Stephen introducing me and my acceptance speech!

Photos 2-4 Credit: Rebecca J. Michelson / @rebeccajmichelson