Oscar Hammerstein II

Legendary American Lyricist and Musical Theatre Innovator

Oscar Hammerstein II was a prominent American lyricist, theatrical producer, and (usually uncredited) director in musical theater. Born on July 12, 1895, he was part of one of Broadway's most famous creative duos, Rodgers and Hammerstein, alongside composer Richard Rodgers. Together, they created a string of popular Broadway musicals in the 1940s and 1950s, including "Oklahoma!," "Carousel," "South Pacific," "The King and I," and "The Sound of Music." Hammerstein was known for his role in developing the "book musical," a musical play where the songs and dances are fully integrated into a well-made story with serious dramatic goals.