Photo Flash: Sheldon Harnick Visits Elisabeth Morrow School for Exclusive Master Class

Recently, lyricist Sheldon Harnick, visited Elisabeth Morrow School to host an exclusive master class with theater students. With a career spanning over 50 years, Harnick is responsible for some of the greatest and well-known compositions in musical theater, including his collaboration with Jerry Bock on hit musical, Fiddler on the Roof. At 90 years old, Harnick offered EMS students a lifetime of advice and insight into the world of Broadway. "It was an enormous thrill to have an artist of Mr. Harnick's magnitude take the time to come and work with our young artists here at EMS. He was struck by the incredible talent and seriousness of our students and was riveted by their performance. For the 5th and 6th grade musical, Fiddler on the Roof, to come full circle with the lyricist who created the show was an once-in-a-lifetime experience for both the teachers and the students. Mr. Harnick gave the history behind the show and specific stage directions to the students. What an amazing day with a living legend!! - Amelia Gold, Arts Department Chair.

Harnick fielded questions from students, ranging from how he created the characters in his stories to questions concerning his sources of inspiration. A true storyteller, Harnick impressed EMS students, mesmerizing them with his dynamism and candor. EMS student, Joseph Agresta, thoroughly enjoyed the once in a lifetime opportunity to meet one of his idols. "I really enjoyed having Mr. Harnick visit us. It was very exciting! He was very funny and nice. I thought he was a great person!"