Sheldon Harnick
Birth Place: USA
Latest News on Sheldon Harnick:
Review Roundup: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Starring Jason Alexander at La Mirada Theatre (Nov 15, 2024)
Review: Jason Alexander Leads Outstanding FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at La Mirada Theatre (Nov 15, 2024)
Video: Watch Jason Alexander in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Preview (Nov 13, 2024)
Review Roundup: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Starring Jason Alexander at La Mirada Theatre (Nov 15, 2024)
Review: Jason Alexander Leads Outstanding FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at La Mirada Theatre (Nov 15, 2024)
Video: Watch Jason Alexander in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Preview (Nov 13, 2024)
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.
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STAGE CREDITS
Productions
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Additional Music
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Lyrics
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Music
Music
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Sketches
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Awards and Nominations
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2016 - Special Drama Desk Award
Sheldon Harnick
winner
Drama League Awards - 2016 - Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre
Sheldon Harnick
winner
Tony Awards - 2016 - Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre
Sheldon Harnick
Tony Awards - 1994 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre
Sheldon Harnick, Cyrano: The Musical
Tony Awards - 1971 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre
Sheldon Harnick, The Rothschilds
Tony Awards - 1967 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre
Sheldon Harnick , The Apple Tree
winner
New York Drama Critics Circle Awards - 1965 - Best Musical
Sheldon Harnick, Fiddler on the Roof
winner
Tony Awards - 1965 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre
Sheldon Harnick, Fiddler on the Roof
winner
New York Drama Critics Circle Awards - 1960 - Best Musical
Sheldon Harnick, Fiorello!
Videos
Video: Get A First Look At FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at North Shore Music Theatre
by Joshua Wright - Jun 6, 2024
Video: Get a First Look at FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Paper Mill Playhouse
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Dec 19, 2023
VIDEO: Director Mark S. Hoebee Talks FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Paper Mill Playhouse
by Blair Ingenthron - Dec 17, 2023
Video: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, SHE LOVES ME Lyricist Sheldon Harnick Celebrated At Star-Studded Memorial
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 10, 2023
VIDEO: First Look at Ali Ewoldt, Deven Kolluri & More in SHE LOVES ME
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 15, 2022
Exclusive: Ali Ewoldt Sings 'Vanilla Ice Cream' From Signature's SHE LOVES ME
by Alan Henry - Mar 9, 2022
VIDEO: Inside Rehearsal For SHE LOVES ME, Starring Ali Ewoldt at Signature Theatre
by Stephi Wild - Mar 3, 2022
VIDEO: Watch Josh Young, Erin Mackey, and Eddie Cooper Sing Sheldon Harnick's 'The Man With the Sign'
by Nicole Rosky - Feb 10, 2021
VIDEO: 2004 FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Cast Reunites for a Rosh Hashanah 'Sabbath Prayer'
by Nicole Rosky - Sep 18, 2020
Video Flashback: The York Tributes Sheldon Harnick on His 96th Birthday
by Stephi Wild - May 1, 2020
VIDEO: Jane Krakowski Shares the Story of Throwing Nicholas Barasch a Prom During SHE LOVES ME
by Stephi Wild - Apr 9, 2020
BWW Exclusive: First Look At FIDDLER: A MIRACLE OF MIRACLES Documentary
by A.A. Cristi - Aug 12, 2019
VIDEO: See The First Trailer For New Documentary FIDDLER: A MIRACLE OF MIRACLES
by A.A. Cristi - Jun 12, 2019
News
Review Roundup: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Starring Jason Alexander at La Mirada Theatre
See what the critics are saying about Fiddler on the Roof starring Jason Alexander at La Mirada Theatre. Learn more about the production and read the reviews!
See what the critics are saying about Fiddler on the Roof starring Jason Alexander at La Mirada Theatre. Learn more about the production and read the reviews!
Review: Jason Alexander Leads Outstanding FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at La Mirada Theatre
Led by a brilliant performance by Jason Alexander, this lively, emotionally-grounded, classic-leaning staging still somehow manages to feel fresh, reinvigorated, and much more searing than prior iterations.This latest SoCal-area revival of the landmark 1964 musical—here directed by Lonny Price—is, at its most impressive core, one of the most thoughtful, winningly-engaging stage musicals of the year thus far, and is a definite must-not-miss production.
Led by a brilliant performance by Jason Alexander, this lively, emotionally-grounded, classic-leaning staging still somehow manages to feel fresh, reinvigorated, and much more searing than prior iterations.This latest SoCal-area revival of the landmark 1964 musical—here directed by Lonny Price—is, at its most impressive core, one of the most thoughtful, winningly-engaging stage musicals of the year thus far, and is a definite must-not-miss production.
Video: Watch Jason Alexander in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Preview
Watch a first look video of Jason Alexander in Fiddler on the Roof at La Mirada Theatre! Joining Jason Alexander as “Tevye,” the cast also features: Valerie Perri as “Golde,” Rachel Ravel as “Tzeitel,” Alanna J. Smith as “Hodel,” and more.
Watch a first look video of Jason Alexander in Fiddler on the Roof at La Mirada Theatre! Joining Jason Alexander as “Tevye,” the cast also features: Valerie Perri as “Golde,” Rachel Ravel as “Tzeitel,” Alanna J. Smith as “Hodel,” and more.
Cast Set For SHE LOVES ME at Long Wharf Theatre
Long Wharf Theatre nnounced the cast and creative team for its fall production of She Loves Me, written by Jerry Bock (music), Joe Masteroff (book), and Sheldon Harnick (lyrics), which will take place at The Lab at ConnCORP in Hamden.
Long Wharf Theatre nnounced the cast and creative team for its fall production of She Loves Me, written by Jerry Bock (music), Joe Masteroff (book), and Sheldon Harnick (lyrics), which will take place at The Lab at ConnCORP in Hamden.
Wright State Theatre Brings THE APPLE TREE to Herbst Studio Theatre
THE APPLE TREE will play Herbst Studio Theatre from November 15 – November 24. The show is comprised of three musical miniatures: “The Diary of Adam and Eve”, “The Lady or the Tiger?”, and “Passionella.”
THE APPLE TREE will play Herbst Studio Theatre from November 15 – November 24. The show is comprised of three musical miniatures: “The Diary of Adam and Eve”, “The Lady or the Tiger?”, and “Passionella.”
Photos: Jason Alexander and More in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at La Mirada Theatre
La Mirada Theatre For The Performing Arts & McCoy Rigby Entertainment's production of Fiddler on the Roof starring Tony Award-winner Jason Alexander as “Tevye” is now in performances. Check out photos here!
La Mirada Theatre For The Performing Arts & McCoy Rigby Entertainment's production of Fiddler on the Roof starring Tony Award-winner Jason Alexander as “Tevye” is now in performances. Check out photos here!
Eva Noblezada, James Lapine and More Join York Theatre Company Gala Honoring Bernadette Peters And Ted Snowdon
The York Theatre Company announced additional performers for its gala honoring Bernadette Peters and Ted Snowdon on November 11 at The Edison Ballroom, promising a memorable evening of celebration.
The York Theatre Company announced additional performers for its gala honoring Bernadette Peters and Ted Snowdon on November 11 at The Edison Ballroom, promising a memorable evening of celebration.
Video: Jason Alexander in Rehearsal for FIDDLER ON THE ROOF
Get a first look at Jason Alexander in rehearsal for Fiddler on the Roof at La Mirada Theatre in the video here!
Get a first look at Jason Alexander in rehearsal for Fiddler on the Roof at La Mirada Theatre in the video here!
Michael Urie to Host The York Theatre Company Gala; Andrew Rannells & More Join
The York Theatre Company has revealed the roster of performers for a concert celebration at the 32nd Oscar Hammerstein Award Gala, which will honor musical theater legend Bernadette Peters and more. Learn how to purchase tickets.
The York Theatre Company has revealed the roster of performers for a concert celebration at the 32nd Oscar Hammerstein Award Gala, which will honor musical theater legend Bernadette Peters and more. Learn how to purchase tickets.
Cast and Creative Team Set for SHE LOVES ME at Long Wharf Theatre
Long Wharf Theatre revealed the cast and creative team for its winter production of SHE LOVES ME, featuring direction by Rebecca Martinez and performances by actors including John Smith and Jane Doe. See who is starring and learn how to purchase tickets.
Long Wharf Theatre revealed the cast and creative team for its winter production of SHE LOVES ME, featuring direction by Rebecca Martinez and performances by actors including John Smith and Jane Doe. See who is starring and learn how to purchase tickets.
Actors Theatre of Indiana Presents SHE LOVES ME
Actors Theatre of Indiana has announced a production of SHE LOVES ME, a romantic musical this holiday season.
Actors Theatre of Indiana has announced a production of SHE LOVES ME, a romantic musical this holiday season.
Bruce Sabath Will Lead FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at The Axelrod Performing Arts Center
The Axelrod Performing Arts Center in Deal Park will present a new production of the classic musical Fiddler on the Roof, the 1964 winner of 9 Tony Awards, from November 1-24.
The Axelrod Performing Arts Center in Deal Park will present a new production of the classic musical Fiddler on the Roof, the 1964 winner of 9 Tony Awards, from November 1-24.
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Comes To Axelrod PAC In November
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF will be performed at the Axelrod Performing Arts Center in November, offering audiences a chance to experience this classic musical.
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF will be performed at the Axelrod Performing Arts Center in November, offering audiences a chance to experience this classic musical.
Leslie Uggams to be Honored by Encompass New Opera Theatre
Encompass New Opera Theatre will honor Tony Award winner Leslie Uggams with a musical tribute on October 27, 2024. Learn more about Uggams and about the event.
Encompass New Opera Theatre will honor Tony Award winner Leslie Uggams with a musical tribute on October 27, 2024. Learn more about Uggams and about the event.
Photos: Kerry Butler, L Morgan Lee & More in FIORELLO! at Classic Stage
Classic Stage Company presented a one-night-only benefit performance of Fiorello!, the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical with a book by six-time Tony Award winner George Abbott and Jerome Weidman. See photos here!
Classic Stage Company presented a one-night-only benefit performance of Fiorello!, the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical with a book by six-time Tony Award winner George Abbott and Jerome Weidman. See photos here!
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Begins At Palo Alto Players In November
Experience this beloved musical again, or for the first time! Palo Alto Players continues its 94th season by bringing the family classic FIDDLER ON THE ROOF to the Lucie Stern Theater.
Experience this beloved musical again, or for the first time! Palo Alto Players continues its 94th season by bringing the family classic FIDDLER ON THE ROOF to the Lucie Stern Theater.
Kerry Butler, L Morgan Lee, and Krysta Rodriguez Join FIORELLO! at Classic Stage Company
Classic Stage Company has revealed the full cast for the one-night-only benefit performance of Fiorello!, the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical with a book by six-time Tony Award winner George Abbott
Classic Stage Company has revealed the full cast for the one-night-only benefit performance of Fiorello!, the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical with a book by six-time Tony Award winner George Abbott
Full Cast Announced for FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Starring Jason Alexander at La Mirada Theatre
LA Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts and McCoy Rigby Entertainment announced the cast for their upcoming production of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, featuring a talented ensemble ready to bring the classic musical to life.
LA Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts and McCoy Rigby Entertainment announced the cast for their upcoming production of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, featuring a talented ensemble ready to bring the classic musical to life.
The Dolphin Show to Present 82nd Annual Production CINDERELLA
The Dolphin Show at Northwestern University will present its 82nd production, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA. The nation's largest student-produced musical will take place this winter. Learn how to purchase tickets.
The Dolphin Show at Northwestern University will present its 82nd production, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA. The nation's largest student-produced musical will take place this winter. Learn how to purchase tickets.
Preview: Musical Gem SHE LOVES ME to Capture Hearts at Forte Theatre Company
Forte Theatre Company is kicking off its main stage season with the classic musical She Loves Me, running October 4–13.
Forte Theatre Company is kicking off its main stage season with the classic musical She Loves Me, running October 4–13.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many Broadway shows has Sheldon Harnick been in?
Sheldon Harnick has appeared on Broadway in 1 shows.
How many West End shows has Sheldon Harnick been in?
Sheldon Harnick has not appeared in the West End.
What awards has Sheldon Harnick been nominated for?
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!.
What awards has Sheldon Harnick won?
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. Additionally, he won the Best Musical from the New York Drama Critics Circle Awards for Fiddler on the Roof, and he received the Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre from the Tony Awards for Fiddler on the Roof. He also won Best Musical from the New York Drama Critics Circle Awards for Fiorello!.
How many shows has Sheldon Harnick written?
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