Peter Udell

Peter Udell is an American playwright, lyricist, and screenwriter best known for his work on several successful Broadway musicals during the 1960s and 70s, often in collaboration with composer Gary Geld. His lyrics are noted for their warmth, wit, and emotional resonance, helping bring a number of distinctive musical theatre stories to life.

Udell began his career writing pop lyrics, co-writing hit songs such as “Sealed with a Kiss” and “Hurting Each Other,” both of which became chart-toppers in the 1960s. His ability to craft heartfelt and memorable lyrics soon led him to the world of musical theatre.

He made his Broadway debut as a lyricist and book writer with the 1970 musical Purlie, an adaptation of Ossie Davis’s play Purlie Victorious. Set in the Jim Crow-era American South, Purlie told the story of a traveling preacher’s fight for racial justice and dignity. The show was praised for its soul-influenced score, uplifting message, and compelling characters, and it earned Udell a Tony Award nomination for Best Book of a Musical.

Udell and Geld followed up with other musicals, including Shenandoah (1975), a Civil War-era drama that received critical acclaim and earned multiple Tony nominations, including Best Musical. Shenandoah ran for over 1,000 performances and remains a frequently produced show in regional and school theatres. Udell won the Tony Award for Best Book of a Musical for Shenandoah and was also nominated for Best Original Score.

Other works include Angel (1978) and Amen Corner (1983), further showcasing his ability to weave lyrical storytelling with socially conscious themes.

Peter Udell’s contributions to American musical theatre reflect a deep commitment to narrative integrity, musical richness, and the exploration of meaningful cultural and historical themes.