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Sheldon Harnick Headshot

Sheldon Harnick

Birth Place: USA

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BIO

Sheldon Harnick is a legendary lyricist and composer who has made an indelible mark on Broadway. Born in Chicago in 1924, Harnick began writing songs at a young age, and went on to attend the Northwestern University School of Music. After serving in World War II, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in musical theater.



Harnick's first Broadway credit came in 1955, when he wrote the lyrics for the musical "The Body Beautiful." However, it was his collaboration with composer Jerry Bock that would prove to be his most successful partnership. The duo first worked together on the 1957 musical "The Body Beautiful," but it was their next project that would cement their place in Broadway history.

In 1960, Harnick and Bock's musical "Fiorello!" premiered on Broadway. The show, which told the story of New York City Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia, was a critical and commercial success, winning both the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. The show's hit song, "Little Tin Box," became an instant classic.

Harnick and Bock went on to collaborate on several more successful musicals, including "She Loves Me" (1963), "Fiddler on the Roof" (1964), and "The Rothschilds" (1970). "Fiddler on the Roof" in particular became a cultural phenomenon, running for over 3,000 performances on Broadway and spawning numerous revivals and adaptations. The show's iconic songs, such as "Tradition," "Matchmaker, Matchmaker," and "Sunrise, Sunset," are still beloved by audiences today.

In addition to his work with Bock, Harnick has also collaborated with other composers throughout his career. He wrote the lyrics for the musical "Tenderloin" with composer Jerry Ross in 1960, and worked with Richard Rodgers on the musical "Rex" in 1976.

Harnick's contributions to musical theater have not gone unnoticed. He has won several Tony Awards, including Best Musical for "Fiorello!" and "Fiddler on the Roof," as well as Best Original Score for "Fiorello!" and Best Book of a Musical for "She Loves Me." In 2016, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Tony Award for his contributions to the theater.

Outside of his work in musical theater, Harnick has also written songs for television and film. He wrote the theme song for the popular TV show "Car 54, Where Are You?" and contributed songs to the animated film "The Point!" In addition, he has worked as a translator and adapter for several operas, including "The Merry Widow" and "The Mikado."

Harnick's most recent work includes the 2016 Off-Broadway musical "Rothschild & Sons," a revised version of "The Rothschilds" that he wrote with composer Jerry Bock shortly before Bock's death in 2010. The show received positive reviews and was nominated for several Drama Desk Awards.

Throughout his career, Sheldon Harnick has proven himself to be one of the most talented and versatile lyricists in the history of musical theater. His contributions to the art form have left an indelible mark on Broadway, and his songs continue to be beloved by audiences around the world.

Photos

STAGE CREDITS

Alice in Wonderland
[Off-Broadway]
Original Off-Broadway Production, 1975
Performer
Sondheim: A Musical Tribute
[Broadway]
Concert [Broadway], 1973
Special Guest

Productions

She Loves MeShe Loves Me
 
[West End, 2016] [Replacement]
Lyrics[Replacement]
Fiddler on the RoofFiddler on the Roof
 
[Broadway, 2015]
Lyrics
A Wonderful Life
 
[Broadway, 2005]
Vocal Music Arranger
Leonard Sillman's New Faces of 1952
 
[Broadway, 1952]
Lyrics
Music
Fiddler on the RoofFiddler on the Roof
 
[West End, ] [Replacement]
Lyrics[Replacement]

Writing

Wet Paint
Material
The Littlest Revue
Additional Music
Lyricist
The Apple Tree
Bookwriter
Lyricist
The Body Beautiful
Lyricist
Lyricist
Cyrano
Lyricist
Dragons
Bookwriter/Composer/Lyricist
Fiorello!
Lyricist
Joy Ride
Lyricist
Kaleidoscope
Lyricist
Music
Lyricist
Love in Two Countries
Bookwriter/Lyricist
Pinocchio
Lyricist
Portofino
Lyricist
Lyricist
Rex
Lyricist
The Rothschilds
Lyricist
Lyricist
She Loves Me
Lyricist
Lyricist
Tenderloin
Lyricist
The Umbrellas of Cherbourg
Bookwriter/Lyricist
A Wonderful Life
Lyricist
Bookwriter/Lyricist
Bookwriter
Composer

Awards and Nominations


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2016 - Special Drama Desk Award

Sheldon Harnick


winner
Drama League Awards - 2016 - Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre

Sheldon Harnick


winner
Tony Awards - 2016 - Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre

Sheldon Harnick

Tony Awards - 1994 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Sheldon Harnick, Cyrano: The Musical

Tony Awards - 1971 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Sheldon Harnick, The Rothschilds

Tony Awards - 1967 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Sheldon Harnick , The Apple Tree


winner
New York Drama Critics Circle Awards - 1965 - Best Musical

Sheldon Harnick, Fiddler on the Roof


winner
Tony Awards - 1965 - Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Sheldon Harnick, Fiddler on the Roof


winner
New York Drama Critics Circle Awards - 1960 - Best Musical

Sheldon Harnick, Fiorello!

Videos

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News


The Ma'ayanot H.S. Drama Society & Black Box Studios Will Present FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Photo
The Ma'ayanot H.S. Drama Society & Black Box Studios Will Present FIDDLER ON THE ROOF
by A.A. Cristi - Dec 4, 2025

The Ma’ayanot Yeshiva High School Drama Society, in partnership with Black Box Studios, will stage FIDDLER ON THE ROOF this December in Teaneck. The production will feature students from all four grades alongside an extensive design and technical team.
Review: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Tri-M Productions Photo
Review: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Tri-M Productions
by Zoe Burke - Nov 22, 2025

What did our critic think of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Tri-M Productions?
Review: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Signature Theatre Photo
Review: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Signature Theatre
by David Friscic - Nov 14, 2025

Specific events in the intimate world of Anatevka, Russia are presented in a manner that propels universal understanding of the relevant themes of family, forgiveness, acceptance, and tolerance in the highly immersive and interactive staging of the renowned classic Fiddler on the Roof, now at the Signature Theatre. The engaging ensemble assembled here under the ingenious direction of Joe Calarco, shows why this landmark 1964 musical has spawned so many stage revivals through the decades as well as a magnificent 1971 film. (Based on the Sholem Aleichem stories by special permission of Arnold Perl).
The York Theatre's 33rd Annual Oscar Hammerstein Award Announces Its 2025 Fall Benefi Photo
The York Theatre's 33rd Annual Oscar Hammerstein Award Announces Its 2025 Fall Benefit Auction
by Gillian Blum - Nov 10, 2025

The York Theatre announced the launch of its 2025 Fall Benefit Auction.
Previews: SHE LOVES ME at Brookfield Theatre For The Arts Photo
Previews: SHE LOVES ME at Brookfield Theatre For The Arts
by Jared Reynolds - Nov 7, 2025

Celebrate this Holiday Season at Brookfield Theatre with 'She Loves Me,' an intimate and touching show featuring music by Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick (Fiddler on the Roof) and book by Joe Masteroff (Cabaret).
THE SOUND OF MUSIC & More Lead Boston's November 2025 Top Theatre Shows Photo
THE SOUND OF MUSIC & More Lead Boston's November 2025 Top Theatre Shows
by Team BWW - Oct 31, 2025

Boston is never lacking outstanding theatre, whether epic Broadway shows, engrossing dramas or bold fringe offerings. BroadwayWorld is rounding up our top recommended theatre every month. Selections for November 2025 include The Sound of Music and more.
SHE LOVES ME to be Presented by Blue Hill Troupe, Ltd. Photo
SHE LOVES ME to be Presented by Blue Hill Troupe, Ltd.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 27, 2025

The Blue Hill Troupe has revealed its 2025 fall production: She Loves Me at the Theatre at St. Jean's. This timeless musical comedy tells the tale of sparring co-workers who are really lovelorn pen pals. Learn more!
Tickets on Sale for FOOTLOOSE at The Dolphin Show at Northwestern University Photo
Tickets on Sale for FOOTLOOSE at The Dolphin Show at Northwestern University
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 24, 2025

The Dolphin Show at Northwestern University has revealed that tickets will go on sale on November 3rd for its 83rd production, Footloose. Learn more here!
Video: Douglas Sills Sings 'Tradition' from FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Signature Theatre Photo
Video: Douglas Sills Sings 'Tradition' from FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Signature Theatre
by Joshua Wright - Oct 22, 2025

Watch as Douglas Sills and the company of Fiddler on the Roof sing 'Tradition' at Signature Theatre in Washington, DC. Fiddler on the Roof has a book by Joseph Stein, music by Jerry Bock, and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick.
PRAYER FOR THE FRENCH REPUBLIC and More Set for NJT 2026 Season Photo
PRAYER FOR THE FRENCH REPUBLIC and More Set for NJT 2026 Season
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 20, 2025

New Jewish Theatre has unveiled its 2026 season, featuring five productions. The line-up includes three new to St. Louis productions, a Tony Award–winning comedy, and one of Broadway's most beloved musicals. Learn more!
Douglas Sills and More to Star in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Signature Theatre Photo
Douglas Sills and More to Star in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF at Signature Theatre
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 6, 2025

Signature Theatre has revealed the cast and creative team for the musical Fiddler on the Roof. See who is starring in the production, and learn how to purchase tickets here!
Interview: Jeff Harnar Celebrates THE 1959 BROADWAY SONGBOOK Album at Birdland Photo
Interview: Jeff Harnar Celebrates THE 1959 BROADWAY SONGBOOK Album at Birdland
by Rebecca Kaplan - Oct 3, 2025

The remastered and revised album celebrating the Golden Age of Broadway comes out on 10/3, with a 10/6 album release concert at Birdland Jazz Club. We spoke to Harnar about the new album and show.
Cape Rep Theatre to Present SHE LOVES ME Photo
Cape Rep Theatre to Present SHE LOVES ME
by A.A. Cristi - Oct 3, 2025

Cape Rep Theatre in Brewster, MA will close its 40th Anniversary Season with the romantic musical comedy She Loves Me, running November 6–December 7, 2025. Directed by Maura Hanlon.
SHE LOVES ME and More Set for The Blue Hill Troupe 2025-26 Season Photo
SHE LOVES ME and More Set for The Blue Hill Troupe 2025-26 Season
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 24, 2025

The Blue Hill Troupe has revealed its 2025-26 season: She Loves Me and more. See the full season lineup here and learn how to purchase tickets to the season!
SHE LOVES ME Will Be Staged by University of Michigan Musical Theatre at The Encore Photo
SHE LOVES ME Will Be Staged by University of Michigan Musical Theatre at The Encore
by A.A. Cristi - Sep 19, 2025

The University of Michigan’s Department of Musical Theatre, nationally ranked among the country’s top programs and a pipeline to Broadway, will bring She Loves Me to The Encore Musical Theatre in Dexter.
Review: A FIDDLER For Our Time at the Alliance Theatre Photo
Review: A FIDDLER For Our Time at the Alliance Theatre
by Amanda Theriot-Greenwell - Sep 19, 2025

With so many outlets for theatrical and musical talent in Atlanta, it is a real treat to see two powerhouses come together as one.  When it’s the Alliance Theatre and the Atlanta Opera joining forces to produce their current run of the classic Fiddler on the Roof, it’s a blessing beyond measure.
SHE LOVES ME Will Be Staged by University of Michigan Musical Theatre at The Encore Photo
SHE LOVES ME Will Be Staged by University of Michigan Musical Theatre at The Encore
by A.A. Cristi - Sep 19, 2025

The University of Michigan’s Department of Musical Theatre, nationally ranked among the country’s top programs and a pipeline to Broadway, will bring She Loves Me to The Encore Musical Theatre in Dexter.
SHE LOVES ME at Bucks County Playhouse Photo
SHE LOVES ME at Bucks County Playhouse
by Marakay Rogers - Sep 7, 2025

You know it and you love it - even if you didn’t know where it’s from. Harnick and Bock delight once again at the BCP stage.
Video: Elena Shaddow, Andrew Leeds and More in SHE LOVES ME at Bucks County Playhouse Photo
Video: Elena Shaddow, Andrew Leeds and More in SHE LOVES ME at Bucks County Playhouse
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Aug 26, 2025

Bucks County Playhouse has released a video preview (Dave Tavani) of its new revival of the beloved musical romance “She Loves Me,” directed and choreographed by two-time Tony-nominee Denis Jones (“Holiday Inn,” “Tootsie”).
Photos: SHE LOVES ME is Now Playing at Bucks County Playhouse Photo
Photos: SHE LOVES ME is Now Playing at Bucks County Playhouse
by Stephi Wild - Aug 20, 2025

Bucks County Playhouse will continue its summer season with a new revival of the beloved musical romance “She Loves Me,” directed and choreographed by two-time Tony-nominee Denis Jones. Check out all new photos here!
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many Broadway shows has Sheldon Harnick been in?

Sheldon Harnick has appeared on Broadway in 1 shows.

How many West End shows has Sheldon Harnick been in?

Sheldon Harnick has not appeared in the West End.

What awards has Sheldon Harnick been nominated for?

Special Drama Desk Award (Drama Desk Awards), Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre (Drama League Awards), Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre (Tony Awards) for , Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Cyrano: The Musical, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for The Rothschilds, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for The Apple Tree, Best Musical (New York Drama Critics Circle Awards) for Fiddler on the Roof, Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre (Tony Awards) for Fiddler on the Roof and Best Musical (New York Drama Critics Circle Awards) for Fiorello!.

What awards has Sheldon Harnick won?

Sheldon Harnick has received several prestigious awards throughout his career. He won a Special Drama Desk Award from the Drama Desk Awards and was honored with Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre by the Drama League Awards. He also received a Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre from the Tony Awards. Harnick earned the Best Musical award from the New York Drama Critics Circle Awards for Fiddler on the Roof, as well as the Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre at the Tony Awards for the same show. Additionally, he won Best Musical from the New York Drama Critics Circle Awards for Fiorello!.

How many shows has Sheldon Harnick written?

Sheldon Harnick has written 37 shows including Love in Two Countries (Bookwriter/Lyricist), Leonard Sillman's New Faces of 1952 (Composer/Lyricist), Two's Company (Composer), Shoestring Revue (Sketches), The Littlest Revue (Lyricist), Kaleidoscope (Lyricist), The Body Beautiful (Lyricist), Portofino (Lyricist), Joy Ride (Lyricist), Fiorello! (Lyricist), Tenderloin (Lyricist), Smiling the Boy Fell Dead (Lyricist), Smiling, the Boy Fell Dead (Lyricist), Man in the Moon (Lyricist), She Loves Me (Lyricist), To Broadway with Love (Lyricist), Fiddler on the Roof (Lyricist), Wet Paint (Material), The Apple Tree (Bookwriter), Her First Roman (Lyricist), Pinocchio (Lyricist), Alice in Wonderland (Lyricist), Captain Jinks of the Horse Marines (Libretto), Rex (Lyricist), The Madwoman of Central Park West (Lyricist), The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (Bookwriter/Lyricist), A Christmas Carol (Lyricist), A Wonderful Life (Bookwriter/Lyricist), Barbara Cook: A Concert for the Theatre (Lyricist), Jerome Robbins' Broadway (Lyricist), The Rothschilds (Lyricist), Cyrano - The Musical (Lyricist), Mostly Sondheim (Lyricist), Dragons (Bookwriter/Composer/Lyricist), Barbara Cook's Broadway! (Lyricist), Chita Rivera: The Dancer's Life (Composer), Rothschild & Sons (Lyrics).

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