Marek Norman is considered one of Canada’s most versatile theatre artists. A multi-award-winning composer/songwriter/actor/producer, his performance credits include Canadian premieres of Closer Than Ever and Falsettos, world premieres of Amelia (by John Gray) and The Death of Von Richthofen ... (by Des McAnuff). Marek has created over 50 original scores for theatre productions. His musicals include Dracula – A Chamber Musical, Emily, Larry’s Party, Dancer, Ballycroy – and Wanderlust (in collaboration with Morris Panych) which received its world premiere at the Stratford Festival. Other works: The Tin Soldier, Oliver Button is a Sissy (National Tap Dance Co.), The Lover (a film-ballet), opening/closing ceremonies for The Canada Games, Bridgefest (PEI), and Special Olympics – for which his anthem, “Along The Way”, has become the organization’s main theme (worldwide). Mr. Norman co-produced (with his wife, Barbara Barsky) the Canadian premiere of Stephen Sondheim’s Assassins, which garnered five Dora Mavor Moore Awards – including Best Production and Musical Direction. Their company, Reprise Concerts, produced classic works in concert format: including Company, Guys and Dolls, Anything Goes, Roar of The Greasepaint, Smell of The Crowd. Marek has written, arranged and performed over 1500 commercial jingles. His theme for American Airlines –“We’re Giving Our Best” won the prestigious Clio Award for Best Song of the Year. As a singer, Marek has provided vocal support for such superstars as: Bryan Adams, Sheena Easton, Roberta Flack, Aretha Franklin, Liza Minnelli, Luther Vandross and Colm Wilkinson. Marek Norman has received seven Dora Mavor Moore Awards nominations, and is the only theatre artist to be so honoured in the following four categories: 1) Producer (Assassins) 2) Composer (Larry’s Party) 3) Actor (Closer Than Ever) 4) Musical Director (Assassins, The Last Five Years, A Chorus of Disapproval, Oh, What A Lovely War) As an educator, Marek continues to work with many of Canada’s young writers of musical theatre. He is the former composer-in-residence for Stratford’s famed INNERchamber music ensemble. His initial commission, “A Day Like No Other” (for seven musicians and actor) received its world premiere at Factory 163 in June, 2016. “Suite Wanderlust” (for orchestra and dancers), March, 2017. SONG CYCLE: “The Light That Shines”, November, 2018. “Mystique”, March, 2019. “Gestures”, October, 2019 – and, most recently, “Ballycroy” (in concert), November, 2022.
