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American librettist, lyricist, theatrical producer, and director of musicals (1895–1960).
Born July 12th, 1895 in New York City. [ref]
Died August 23rd, 1960 at 65 years old in Doylestown (stomach cancer). [ref]
Oscar Hammerstein II (1895-1960), one of the most respected and prolific lyricists of the 20th century, passed away on August 23rd, 1960 at the age of 65. Born in New York City, Hammerstein made a name for himself as a preeminent songwriter and librettist by writing for many musicals and plays throughout his career. His Broadway credits include Oklahoma!, Show Boat, South Pacific, Me and Juliet, The King and I, Flower Drum Song, and The Sound of Music. He won two Tony Awards and two Pulitzer Prizes for his writing. Hammerstein also co-wrote many classic Broadway standards, such as “The Surrey With The Fringe On Top,” “Oh, What A Beautiful Mornin’,” “Edelweiss,” and “I Have Dreamed.” His songs have become beloved and timeless staples in the American canon. He is remembered fondly as a titan of 20th century theatre and one of Broadway’s most influential lyricists.
Try as much as possible to be wholly alive with all your might, and when you laugh, laugh like hell. And when you get angry, get good and angry. Try to be alive. You will be dead soon enough. William Saroyan