Rodgers and Hammerstein
Revolutionary American musical theatre partnership consisting of composer Richard Rodgers (1902–1979) and lyricist/librettist Oscar Hammerstein II (1895–1960).
Formed in 1943 after previous collaborations with other partners, Rodgers & Hammerstein redefined musical theatre through integrated storytelling. Their works include 'Oklahoma!', 'Carousel', 'South Pacific', 'The King and I', and 'The Sound of Music'. The duo won 34 Tony Awards, 2 Pulitzer Prizes, and 2 Academy Awards. Their partnership ended with Hammerstein's death in 1960.
- Their first collaboration 'Oklahoma!' (1943) was initially called 'Away We Go!' and faced skepticism from producers who doubted its commercial potential.
- Hammerstein wrote lyrics first—unusual for the era—with Rodgers then composing music to fit the words, reversing the standard Broadway process.
- Both faced personal turmoil: Rodgers battled depression and alcoholism, while Hammerstein's son died in WWII during 'Carousel' development.
- Hammerstein died of stomach cancer on August 23, 1960; Rodgers continued composing but never replicated their success with new partners.
- Rodgers underwent multiple cancer surgeries and a laryngectomy before dying on December 30, 1979. His last words reportedly honored Hammerstein.
