The brilliant late lyricist and composer Stephen Sondheim has inspired generations of composers, songwriters and performers. Among the most important figures in 20th century musical theatre, praised for reinventing the form, Sondheim’s creative legacy, either alone or in partnership with others, includes West Side Story, Follies, Sweeney Todd, Company, Into the Woods and Sunday in the Park with George.
We pay homage to the man and his writing in a special hour of conversation and song: performances by Jennifer Ward-Lealand, Edward Laurenson, Ben Kubiak, Cole Johnston, Kristin Darragh, and a National Youth Theatre ensemble, all accompanied by James Doy on piano; reflections, readings and tributes, with Gregory Camp steering proceedings. In the words of James Lapine (who collaborated with Sondheim on Sunday and will record a special message for this event): “A blank page or canvas – his favourite; so many possibilities.” Bravo and farewell, Stephen.
