Oscar Hammerstein II, born on December 12, 1895 in New York City, NY, is a legendary figure in American musical theatre. His collaborations with Richard Rodgers produced some of the most iconic and beloved musicals of all time. Before achieving fame and success, Hammerstein attended Columbia University and Columbia Law School. However, his passion for theatre led him to drop out of law school and pursue a career in the arts.
Hammerstein's first foray into musical theatre was with the production of "Always You" in 1921. It was clear from the start that he possessed a talent and vision for storytelling through music. His first collaboration with Rodgers was a musical adaptation of the play "Green Grow the Lilacs," which would eventually become the groundbreaking musical "Oklahoma!" The show premiered on Broadway in 1943 and revolutionized the genre with its seamless integration of songs and storytelling.
Throughout his career, Hammerstein and Rodgers continued to push the boundaries of musical theatre, creating timeless classics such as "Carousel," "The King and I," "South Pacific," and "The Sound of Music." Their collaborations were known for their well-developed characters and emotionally resonant songs that advanced the plot.
Family was an important aspect of Hammerstein's life. He was married twice, first to Myra Finn in 1917, with whom he had two children. After their divorce, he married Dorothy Jacobson in 1929 and had a son, James Hammerstein, who would go on to become a successful theatre director and producer.
In addition to his work with Richard Rodgers, Hammerstein also collaborated with Jerome Kern on the hit musical "Show Boat" in 1927. His influence on the art form of musical theatre cannot be overstated, as he helped shape and define the genre for future generations.
Hammerstein's legacy lives on through the timeless music and stories he created. His contributions to American musical theatre have left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring countless artists and audiences alike.
Oscar Hammerstein II will always be remembered as a visionary and trailblazer in the world of musical theatre, whose work continues to captivate and inspire audiences around the world.