Stephen Sondheim at the Olivier Awards 2011

Stephen Sondheim dies aged 91

Published 27 November 2021

Legendary composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim has died aged 91 at his home in Connecticut.

In the words of our Chief Executive, Julian Bird: “The theatre world is a smaller place tonight after the passing of Stephen Sondheim. His legacy of extraordinary shows and songs will live on for many generations to come – but now, we pay tribute to his outstanding contribution to our theatres and celebrate his talent.”

Sondheim, known for theatre classics such as Into The Woods, Sweeney Todd, Follies, Merrily We Roll Along, West Side Story, Gypsy, A Little Night Music, even won a Pulitzer Prize for his musical, Sunday In The Park With George. He also wrote music for films.

He was honoured with the Special Award at the Olivier Awards in 2011 and just two years ago his musical comedy, Company, received nine nominations and won four awards including Best Musical Revival.

Across the West End, Broadway and the world – he will be missed.

Here you can watch Rosalie Craig singing Sondheim’s ‘Being Alive’ at the Olivier Awards in 2019.

Watch Sondheim’s Special Award speech here:

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