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On Thursday, Sept. 28, Waveny LifeCare Network, a senior care center in New Canaan, invites the public to join Oscar Hammerstein III, grandson of Oscar Hammerstein II for a celebration of American musical theater history. Complete with family stories, professional highlights, scandals and tragedies, Hammerstein will recount the Hammerstein legacy in his own words.
New York City-born Hammerstein II quit law school in the early-1900's to begin what would become one of the most successful theater careers in American history. While Hammerstein directed and composed many solo works, he found national success collaborating with Richard Rodgers. "Rodgers and Hammerstein" ultimately became the most influential duo in theater during the 1950's and 60's. Often referred to as the greatest musical writing partnership of the 20th-century, Hammerstein and Rodgers created plays including "Oklahoma!," "Carousel," "South Pacific," "The King and I" and the television musical, "Cinderella." Hammerstein won eight Tony Awards and two Academy Awards for Best Original Song during his career.
Hammerstein II died in 1960 but left a legacy that is still impacts musical theater today. In addition to sharing memories from his personal life, Hammerstein III will read excerpts from his book, "The Hammersteins," which includes a detailed narrative about his grandfather's life and career.
The free event is open to the public and will be held on “Main Street” at The Village at Waveny at 5:00 p.m. For more information, call 203-594-5310, email info@waveny.org or visit Waveny's website.
