Sheldon Harnick
Birth Place: USA
Cast Set for FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Revival Theatre Company (May 26, 2026)
Photos: Victoria Clark Honored at New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players 2026 Gala (May 20, 2026)
Interview: Irina Zaurov Directs FIDDLER ON THE ROOF At Toledo Repertoire Theatre (May 19, 2026)
BIO
Sheldon Harnick is a legendary lyricist and composer who has made an indelible mark on Broadway. Born in Chicago in 1924, Harnick began writing songs at a young age, and went on to attend the Northwestern University School of Music. After serving in World War II, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in musical theater.
Harnick's first Broadway credit came in 1955, when he wrote the lyrics for the musical "The Body Beautiful." However, it was his collaboration with composer Jerry Bock that would prove to be his most successful partnership. The duo first worked together on the 1957 musical "The Body Beautiful," but it was their next project that would cement their place in Broadway history.
In 1960, Harnick and Bock's musical "Fiorello!" premiered on Broadway. The show, which told the story of New York City Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia, was a critical and commercial success, winning both the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. The show's hit song, "Little Tin Box," became an instant classic.
Harnick and Bock went on to collaborate on several more successful musicals, including "She Loves Me" (1963), "Fiddler on the Roof" (1964), and "The Rothschilds" (1970). "Fiddler on the Roof" in particular became a cultural phenomenon, running for over 3,000 performances on Broadway and spawning numerous revivals and adaptations. The show's iconic songs, such as "Tradition," "Matchmaker, Matchmaker," and "Sunrise, Sunset," are still beloved by audiences today.
In addition to his work with Bock, Harnick has also collaborated with other composers throughout his career. He wrote the lyrics for the musical "Tenderloin" with composer Jerry Ross in 1960, and worked with Richard Rodgers on the musical "Rex" in 1976.
Harnick's contributions to musical theater have not gone unnoticed. He has won several Tony Awards, including Best Musical for "Fiorello!" and "Fiddler on the Roof," as well as Best Original Score for "Fiorello!" and Best Book of a Musical for "She Loves Me." In 2016, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Tony Award for his contributions to the theater.
Outside of his work in musical theater, Harnick has also written songs for television and film. He wrote the theme song for the popular TV show "Car 54, Where Are You?" and contributed songs to the animated film "The Point!" In addition, he has worked as a translator and adapter for several operas, including "The Merry Widow" and "The Mikado."
Harnick's most recent work includes the 2016 Off-Broadway musical "Rothschild & Sons," a revised version of "The Rothschilds" that he wrote with composer Jerry Bock shortly before Bock's death in 2010. The show received positive reviews and was nominated for several Drama Desk Awards.
Throughout his career, Sheldon Harnick has proven himself to be one of the most talented and versatile lyricists in the history of musical theater. His contributions to the art form have left an indelible mark on Broadway, and his songs continue to be beloved by audiences around the world.
Photos
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STAGE CREDITS
Productions
Writing
Lyricist
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Lyricist
Composer
Music
Lyricist
Lyricist
Bookwriter/Lyricist
Bookwriter
Composer
Awards and Nominations
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Sheldon Harnick
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Sheldon Harnick
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Sheldon Harnick
Sheldon Harnick, Cyrano: The Musical
Sheldon Harnick, The Rothschilds
Sheldon Harnick , The Apple Tree
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Sheldon Harnick, Fiddler on the Roof
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Sheldon Harnick, Fiddler on the Roof
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Sheldon Harnick, Fiorello!
Videos
Video: Inside Rehearsals for THE MERRY WIDOW at Opera Orlando
by Joshua Wright - 2026-04-21 13:03:31
Video: Douglas Sills Sings 'Tradition' from FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Signature Theatre
by Joshua Wright - 2025-10-22 14:41:41
Video: Elena Shaddow, Andrew Leeds and More in SHE LOVES ME at Bucks County Playhouse
by Chloe Rabinowitz - 2025-08-26 14:36:57
Video: Anna Zavelson and Henry Patterson Release Jazzy 'All I Ask of You' Cover
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-04-09 12:09:19
Video: Kate Baldwin sings 'When Did I Fall in Love' from Fiorello! at 54 Below!
by A.A. Cristi - 2025-03-06 22:41:19
Video: Jason Alexander in Rehearsal for FIDDLER ON THE ROOF
by Blair Ingenthron - 2024-10-25 20:55:46
Video: Get A First Look At FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at North Shore Music Theatre
by Joshua Wright - 2024-06-06 11:51:31
Photos/Video: First Look At FIDDLER ON THE ROOF At Drury Lane Theatre
by A.A. Cristi - 2024-02-06 23:49:55
Video: Get a First Look at FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Paper Mill Playhouse
by Chloe Rabinowitz - 2023-12-19 17:42:34
VIDEO: Director Mark S. Hoebee Talks FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Paper Mill Playhouse
by Blair Ingenthron - 2023-12-17 15:05:17
Video: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, SHE LOVES ME Lyricist Sheldon Harnick Celebrated At Star-Studded Memorial
by A.A. Cristi - 2023-11-10 17:55:16
VIDEO: First Look at Ali Ewoldt, Deven Kolluri & More in SHE LOVES ME
by Chloe Rabinowitz - 2022-03-15 12:20:04
Exclusive: Ali Ewoldt Sings 'Vanilla Ice Cream' From Signature's SHE LOVES ME
by Alan Henry - 2022-03-09 09:00:20
VIDEO: Inside Rehearsal For SHE LOVES ME, Starring Ali Ewoldt at Signature Theatre
by Stephi Wild - 2022-03-03 05:33:33
VIDEO: Watch Josh Young, Erin Mackey, and Eddie Cooper Sing Sheldon Harnick's 'The Man With the Sign'
by Nicole Rosky - 2021-02-10 12:01:00
VIDEO: 2004 FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Cast Reunites for a Rosh Hashanah 'Sabbath Prayer'
by Nicole Rosky - 2020-09-18 18:01:00
Video Flashback: The York Tributes Sheldon Harnick on His 96th Birthday
by Stephi Wild - 2020-05-01 08:17:22
VIDEO: Jane Krakowski Shares the Story of Throwing Nicholas Barasch a Prom During SHE LOVES ME
by Stephi Wild - 2020-04-09 10:43:07
News
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 26, 2026
Revival Theatre Company revealed the cast for Fiddler on the Roof, with Tad Paulson as Tevye and Jacob Simon as Motel. Performances will be held at CSPS Hall in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
by Stephi Wild - May 20, 2026
New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players 2026 Gala recently honored two-time Tony Winner and Board Member Victoria Clark with the Albert Bergert Living Legacy of Gilbert & Sullivan Award at Yale Club. Check out photos here.
by Julie Zatko - May 19, 2026
The Toledo Repertoire Theatre will present the classic musical FIDDLER ON THE ROOF this June on its Tenth Street stage. Rich in historical and ethical detail, this Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of milkman Tevye and his five daughters as they navigate changing social norms while trying to hold onto their traditional values.
by Joshua Wright - May 8, 2026
Asolo Repertory Theatre is presenting a fresh take on the beloved musical FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, with a company of actor-musicians bringing the world of Anatevka to life through both performance and live music-making on stage.
by Stephi Wild - May 8, 2026
Centerstage Theatre will present SHE LOVES ME, directed by Michelle Blackmon, as its season finale in Federal Way, WA. The musical, written by Joe Masteroff, Jerry Bock, and Sheldon Harnick, runs Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
by Marissa Faith Curley - May 2, 2026
Birdland Jazz Club will host the return of Jeff Harnar in his show The 1959 Broadway Songbook. Harnar will be joined by his music director Alex Rybeck, in addition to Tom Hubbard on bass and Dan Gross on drums.
by Stephi Wild - May 1, 2026
Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse in Rock Island will present FIDDLER ON THE ROOF as part of its 49th season, featuring Jacob Medich as Tevye and Sarah Hayes as Golde, directed by Georgette Kleier.
by Stephi Wild - Apr 30, 2026
The Tony Awards Administration Committee announced that André Bishop, Jules Fisher, and James Lapine will each receive the 2026 Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre.
by Rebecca Kaplan - Apr 29, 2026
On May 4, the cabaret artist kicks off a special birthday with FIFTY WAYS TO LEAVE YOUR FORTIES at Don't Tell Mama. Read a conversation about the new show and album, and giving herself permission to start her cabaret career at age 40.
by Stephi Wild - Apr 28, 2026
Two-time Tony winner Victoria Clark will be honored by the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players with the Albert Bergeret Living Legacy Award at the company's annual gala, closing its 51st season.
by James Lindhorst - Apr 25, 2026
This production of Fiddler on the Roof is a triumph! It is fresh, exciting, engaging, entertaining, and unlike any other seen. Caleb Long and Colin Healy have created a transformative piece of theater. It has a slight contemporary sound while staying true to the source material. Long inspires affecting performances from his actors and musicians.
by Joshua Wright - Apr 21, 2026
Opera Orlando has released rehearsal footage of THE MERRY WIDOW, Franz Lehár's effervescent operetta now playing two performances only at Steinmetz Hall at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
by Stephen Mosher - Apr 9, 2026
The pleasure in being in the room with The Best.
by Stephi Wild - Apr 7, 2026
Cabaret artist Becca Kidwell is celebrating a milestone birthday in unforgettable fashion. On May 4, she marks turning 50 with the debut of her new cabaret show Fifty Ways to Leave Your Forties at Don't Tell Mama.
by Rebecca Kaplan - Apr 6, 2026
Here are a few top picks to consider in NYC this week including Broadway star Karen Akers, Marilyn May's annual birthday show, Outsiders star Brent Comer and more.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 30, 2026
Center Theatre Group has revealed twelve productions for the 2026/27 Season. The eight-show One CTG subscription package includes plays and musicals at the Mark Taper Forum and Ahmanson Theatre, including The Turning world premiere and more.
by A.A. Cristi - Mar 25, 2026
Union Avenue Opera has announced its 2026 Festival Season in St. Louis. The lineup includes Fiddler on the Roof, L’elisir d’amore, and Samson et Dalila. Performances run July through August.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 17, 2026
Opera San José General Director & CEO Shawna Lucey has revealed the company’s 43rd season, a line up that offers audiences classic operatic favorites, a groundbreakingAmerican musical, and the company’s first-ever John Adams opera.
by A.A. Cristi - Mar 13, 2026
Asolo Repertory Theatre has announced the cast and creative team for its upcoming production of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, set to open in March 2026. The renowned theatre, known for its high-caliber productions, will bring this classic musical to life under the direction of a celebrated creative team. The show promises to offer a fresh interpretation of the beloved story, exploring themes of tradition and change.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 13, 2026
Asolo Repertory Theatre has revealed the cast and creative team for Fiddler on the Roof. The beloved Tony Award-winning musical features music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, and book by Joseph Stein.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Sheldon Harnick has appeared on Broadway in 1 shows.
Sheldon Harnick has not appeared in the West End.
Special Drama Desk Award (Drama Desk Awards), Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre (Drama League Awards), Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre (Tony Awards) for , Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Cyrano: The Musical, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for The Rothschilds, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for The Apple Tree, Best Musical (New York Drama Critics Circle Awards) for Fiddler on the Roof, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Fiddler on the Roof and Best Musical (New York Drama Critics Circle Awards) for Fiorello!.
Sheldon Harnick has received several prestigious awards, including the Special Drama Desk Award from the Drama Desk Awards, the Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre from the Drama League Awards, and the Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre from the Tony Awards. He won Best Musical from the New York Drama Critics Circle Awards for Fiddler on the Roof, as well as Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre from the Tony Awards for Fiddler on the Roof. Additionally, he received the Best Musical award from the New York Drama Critics Circle Awards for Fiorello!
Sheldon Harnick has written 37 shows including Love in Two Countries (Bookwriter/Lyricist), Leonard Sillman's New Faces of 1952 (Composer/Lyricist), Two's Company (Composer), Shoestring Revue (Sketches), The Littlest Revue (Lyricist), Kaleidoscope (Lyricist), The Body Beautiful (Lyricist), Portofino (Lyricist), Joy Ride (Lyricist), Fiorello! (Lyricist), Tenderloin (Lyricist), Smiling the Boy Fell Dead (Lyricist), Smiling, the Boy Fell Dead (Lyricist), Man in the Moon (Lyricist), She Loves Me (Lyricist), To Broadway with Love (Lyricist), Fiddler on the Roof (Lyricist), Wet Paint (Material), The Apple Tree (Bookwriter), Her First Roman (Lyricist), Pinocchio (Lyricist), Alice in Wonderland (Lyricist), Captain Jinks of the Horse Marines (Libretto), Rex (Lyricist), The Madwoman of Central Park West (Lyricist), The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (Bookwriter/Lyricist), A Christmas Carol (Lyricist), A Wonderful Life (Bookwriter/Lyricist), Barbara Cook: A Concert for the Theatre (Lyricist), Jerome Robbins' Broadway (Lyricist), The Rothschilds (Lyricist), Cyrano - The Musical (Lyricist), Mostly Sondheim (Lyricist), Dragons (Bookwriter/Composer/Lyricist), Barbara Cook's Broadway! (Lyricist), Chita Rivera: The Dancer's Life (Composer), Rothschild & Sons (Lyrics).
Videos
