Stephen Sondheim

Sondheim, Stephen (1930– ), U.S. composer and lyricist, whose work is characterized by sophisticated lyrics and intricate music that enriches a storyline. Sondheim began his career as the lyricist for West Side Story (1959). He was awarded the Pulitzer Prize in drama in 1985 for Sunday in the Park with George. Other works include Gypsy (1959), A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (1962), Do I Hear a Waltz? (1965), and A Little Night Music (1973).