Karsh Signature

Yousuf Karsh, master photographer of the 20th century

Oscar Hammerstein

Rodgers, at right, and Hammerstein on the left, 1950

Oscar Hammerstein died on this day, August 23, 1960 (b. 1895). Born Oscar Greeley Clendenning Hammerstein II, he was an American lyricist, librettist, theatrical producer, and director in the musical theater for almost 40 years. He is best known for his collaborations with composer Richard Rodgers, as the duo Rodgers and Hammerstein, whose musicals include Oklahoma!, Carousel, South Pacific, The King and I, and The Sound of Music. Their Broadway productions and their film versions received thirty-four Tony Awards, fifteen Academy Awards, and the Pulitzer Prize.

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