Charles Strouse, a three-time Tony Award-winning composer, passed away at 96 in New York City. Renowned for his contributions to musical theater, Strouse created iconic scores for classics such as “Annie,” “Bye Bye Birdie,” and “Applause,” with a career spanning over half a century. Notable tunes like “Tomorrow” from “Annie” and “Put on a Happy Face” from “Bye Bye Birdie” highlight his ability to craft memorable, uplifting melodies. In an interview prior to his 80th birthday, he expressed a lifelong passion for his work, stating, “Activity — it’s a life force.”
His Broadway career commenced in 1960, achieving breakthrough success with “Bye Bye Birdie,” which depicted a small-town reaction to an Elvis-like crooner being drafted into the Army. The show’s financial struggles were alleviated when Texas oilman L. Slade Brown agreed to fund it after hearing the score, kicking off a legacy that led to a film adaptation in 1963.
Strouse later achieved unmatched success with “Annie” (1977), recounting the adventures of Little Orphan Annie. This production included popular songs like “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile” and “It’s the Hard Knock Life.” Despite a less acclaimed 1982 film version, “Annie” remained a staple, with revivals and adaptations continuing through the years—including Jay-Z sampling its work in his track “Hard Knock Life.”
Strouse also ventured into film, composing for movies like “Bonnie and Clyde” and “The Night They Raided Minsky’s.” His contributions to musical theater and film have left an indelible mark, surviving him along with his four children.
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