The Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theatre Education Center will put the famous lyricist’s writing desk on public display beginning August 23, writes Jeff Werner for the Patch.
Hammerstein composed lyrics to some of his best-known works while working at the iconic desk, including songs for classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals, including Oklahoma!, State Fair, Carousel, South Pacific, and Cinderella.
The historic unveiling of the standing desk will feature a press conference, and the museum’s donors, Hammerstein family members, and local officials are invited to attend a celebratory reception at noon.
After the exclusive program, special first viewing tours led by Mike Adams, Hammerstein Museum Board Vice President and Collections Committee Chair, will be open to the public by advance admission. The tours will highlight both the desk and other Hammerstein family treasures held in the museum’s collections.
The desk was custom-made for Hammerstein by his wife, Dorothy, after he complained that writing at a standard desk was uncomfortable and confining. She mounted the desk on legs tall enough for the six-foot-two lyricist so he could work while standing, and he used that desk for the rest of his life.
Read more about Oscar Hammerstein’s writing desk in the Patch.
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