RICHARD RODGERS [1938-72] Photo archive

Richard Rodgers. [New York, various: 1938-1972]. Set of 37 vintage original 7 x 9″ (17 x 22 cm) and 8 x 10″ (20 x 25 cm) single and double weight black-and-white silver gelatin photos. Overall near fine.

Richard Charles Rodgers (1902-1979) was an American composer who worked primarily in musical theater. With 43 Broadway musicals and over 900 songs to his credit, Rodgers was one of the best-known American composers of the 20th century, and his work significantly influenced popular music. He worked with lyricist Lorenz Hart from 1919 to 1943. When Hart died in 1943, Rodgers formed a partnership with well-known lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II. (Wikipedia)

An array of images featuring the great composer, mostly from the years he worked with partner Hammerstein. Included are 15 solo photos of Rodgers, including formal portraits and of him at the piano; with George Abbott in 1938; with Hammerstein between 1946 and 1958, including with their wives at openings and on vacation; behind-the-scenes with actors Mary Martin (South Pacific), Jane Frohman, Ethel Merman, Eddie Fisher, Mitzi Gaynor (at film premiere), Yau Shan Tung (Flower Drum Song), Danny Kaye (Two by Two), Diahann Carroll (No Strings), and others.