Charles Strouse

Charles Strouse is a Tony Award-winning composer and lyricist whose contributions to the world of musical theater have left an indelible mark. Born in New York City in 1928, Strouse began playing piano at an early age and went on to study composition at the Eastman School of Music and the Juilliard School.

Strouse's first Broadway credit came in 1960 with the musical "Bye Bye Birdie," which he co-wrote with lyricist Lee Adams. The show was a smash hit, running for over 600 performances and earning Strouse his first Tony Award for Best Musical. "Bye Bye Birdie" tells the story of a rock and roll singer who is drafted into the army, and features such memorable songs as "Put On a Happy Face" and "The Telephone Hour."

In the years that followed, Strouse continued to make his mark on Broadway with a string of successful shows. In 1970, he teamed up with librettist Thomas Meehan to write "Annie," a musical based on the popular comic strip. The show was an instant hit, running for over six years and earning Strouse his second Tony Award for Best Musical. "Annie" tells the story of a spunky orphan who is adopted by a wealthy businessman, and features such beloved songs as "Tomorrow" and "It's the Hard-Knock Life."

Strouse's other Broadway credits include "Applause," a musical adaptation of the film "All About Eve," which earned him his third Tony Award for Best Musical; "Golden Boy," a musical adaptation of the Clifford Odets play; and "Rags," a musical about Jewish immigrants on the Lower East Side.

In addition to his work in the theater, Strouse has also made a name for himself in film and television. He composed the music for the 1982 film "Annie," as well as the theme song for the television series "All in the Family." He has also written music for a number of other films and television shows, including "The Night They Raided Minsky's," "Bonnie and Clyde," and "The Love Boat."

Despite his many accomplishments, Strouse remains humble and dedicated to his craft. He has said that his goal as a composer is to "write music that people will remember and that will make them happy." His music has certainly achieved that goal, and has left an enduring legacy in the world of musical theater.

In recognition of his contributions to the arts, Strouse has received numerous honors and awards throughout his career. In addition to his three Tony Awards, he has also been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Theater Hall of Fame. In 2018, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Dramatists Guild.

At 93 years old, Strouse continues to write and compose music, and remains an active member of the theater community. His dedication to his craft and his passion for creating memorable music have made him one of the most beloved and respected figures in the world of musical theater.