Oscar Hammerstein II

Oscar Greeley Clendenning Hammerstein II (1895–1960) was an eminent American lyricist, librettist, theatrical producer, and director in musical theater. His work spanned nearly 40 years, during which he won eight Tony Awards and two Academy Awards. Hammerstein was known for his collaborations with Richard Rodgers as the prestigious Rodgers and Hammerstein duo, responsible for celebrated musicals like Oklahoma!, Carousel, South Pacific, The King and I, and The Sound of Music. His legacy includes a significant contribution to the maturity and character-driven focus of the American musical.