"Once Upon a December" is a beautiful song from the animated film "Anastasia," composed by Stephen Flaherty with lyrics by Lynn Ahrens. While there may not be many specific facts about Stephen Flaherty related to this song, here are some interesting facts about him and the song:
Successful Songwriting Duo: Stephen Flaherty often collaborates with lyricist Lynn Ahrens. Together, they have created some of the most memorable songs in musical theater, including those for "Ragtime," "Seussical," and "Anastasia."
Tony Award Winners: Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens have won several prestigious awards for their work in musical theater, including Tony Awards for Best Original Score for both "Ragtime" and "Seussical."
"Once Upon a December" Nominated for an Academy Award: The song "Once Upon a December" from the animated film "Anastasia" was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1998. While it didn't win the Oscar, the song became a beloved part of the film's soundtrack.
Inspiration for "Anastasia": "Anastasia" is inspired by the legend of Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia, who was rumored to have survived the execution of her family during the Russian Revolution. The film and the song capture the mystery and romance associated with her story.
Multiple Versions: "Once Upon a December" has been performed by various artists and in different languages over the years, adding to its international appeal and popularity.
Broadway Adaptation: The success of the animated film "Anastasia" led to a Broadway musical adaptation in 2017, featuring many of the original songs, including "Once Upon a December." The song's haunting melody and emotional depth contributed to the musical's success on stage.
Emotional Impact: "Once Upon a December" is known for its emotional resonance, particularly in the context of the film's storyline. It is used to convey the longing and memories of the main character, Anastasia, as she tries to uncover her past.
Historical Allusions: The song references the grandeur of pre-revolutionary Russia and the opulence of the Romanov dynasty. It reflects the nostalgia for a bygone era, adding depth to the film's historical setting.
Covers and Popularity: Many artists and musicians have covered "Once Upon a December" over the years, making it a timeless and cherished song with a wide audience.
Stephen Flaherty's work on "Once Upon a December" and his collaboration with Lynn Ahrens have contributed to the enduring appeal of the song and the success of "Anastasia" as both an animated film and a Broadway musical.