The Hammersteins : a musical theater family
(Book)

Includes index.

The Hammersteins is the story of one family that changed Broadway forever. The story begins in 1864, when Oscar Hammerstein I emigrates to America, establishes himself as a successful cigar merchant and turns his attention to the business of music and theaters. He builds many theaters, including New York's most majestic opera house. He turns Times Square (then Longacre Square) into the theater capital of the world. His sons, Willy and Arthur, carry on the tradition and nurture such talents as Will Rogers, W. C. Fields, Al Jolson, Houdini, and Charlie Chaplin. Willy's son, Oscar II, becomes the most successful lyricist of all time, writing the story and words to the most memorable of Broadway shows including Showboat, Oklahoma!, South Pacific, Carousel, The King and I, and The Sound of Music. Oscar II synthesized the previous two generations' efforts to create what we now know as American musical theater. The accomplishments of the Hammersteins are monumental. Their tale is enchanting. Written by Oscar "Andy" Hammerstein (Oscar II's grandson), The Hammersteins presents a multi-layered portrait of the Hammerstein family, complete with personal and professional highlights, as well as the scandals and tragedies. The book also draws heavily upon the family archives, presenting a rich collection of photographs, theater blueprints, programs, patents and more, much of which has never before been seen. The Hammersteins is at once a deeply personal story of and American family living the American dream and a celebration of musical theater in this country.