THEATRICAL THROWBACK THURSDAY: A Fond Farewell To Theodore Bikel

Today we remember a star on stages and screens and beyond in honor of his death this week, Theodore Bikel.

Edelweiss

Singing one of the most memorable and recognizable musical theatre songs ever composed while originating one of the most iconic parts in entertainment history is one way to be sure you will be remembered long after you have left this moral coil and that is certainly the case for Theodore Bikel. Having essayed the role of Captain Von Trapp in the premiere 1959 Broadway production of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein's THE SOUND OF MUSIC, Theodore Bikel made a major mark in not only creating an unforgettable character, but imbuing it with his own hard-worn and true-to-life experiences, especially having been born and raised in the actual European country that acts as the setting for the show itself - Vienna, Austria. Furthermore, his namesake was also a man of the world well-versed and well-respected by many, having been the founder of modern day Zionism, Theodor Herzi. Yet, Bikel's career was marked by more than merely one song or one role - he amassed an astounding amount of credits and created an epic legacy long before his death this week at the age of 91.

Acting as the president of Actor's Equity, Bikel also fought for the rights of his fellow performers and utilized the activism no doubt passed down from his influential father to secure the enacting of several progressive new programs and also became president of the Associated Actors And Artists Of America during the same period in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Plus, Bikel eventually followed in his father's footsteps by becoming chair of the board of directors for Parters For Progressive Israel, as well. Additionally, Bikel remained constantly working and performing throughout his life, bringing many memorable roles to the big screen and small screen, including an Academy Award-nominated turn in THE DEFIANT ONES as well as committing to celluloid several performances in standout films such as THE AFRICAN QUEEN, MY FAIR LADY, GOLDFINGER and many more in addition to an extensive TV resume, too. Plus, besides his awe-inspiring collection of recordings spanning several decades, he also found the time to become the most ubiquitous of all Tevyes in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, performing the role thousands of times in his lifetime all over the world.

A man of music, drama, comedy, politics and activism, Theodore Bikel will be remembered for many years to come thanks to this estimable legacy.

So, now, see Theodore Bikel perform "Edelweiss" live in 2010, more than 50 years after he introduced it.

Revisit the original Broadway cast recording of THE SOUND OF MUSIC, as well.

Theodore Bikel recreates his most memorable FIDDLER ON THE ROOF showstopper live.

So, what is your absolute favorite Theodore Bikel performance of all time? Furthermore, what part of his legacy do you find the most intriguing and/or impressive to consider? With a life this rich and well-lived, Bikel will be remembered for many generations to come and for much, much more than merely "Edelweiss".