Six by Sondheim

About Six by Sondheim

"Six by Sondheim" is an extraordinary documentary that provides an intimate and personal look at the life and work of legendary composer-lyricist Stephen Sondheim. Director James Lapine has ingeniously woven together six classic Sondheim songs, dozens of interviews and footage from Sondheim's home movies to create a well-rounded portrait of a very private man.

Making / Production

The documentary was directed by James Lapine, and it was first aired on HBO in December 2013. The film is structured around six Sondheim songs, each representing a different aspect of the composer's life and career. These songs are interspersed with interviews from renowned performers who have worked with Sondheim and know him intimately, giving viewers a glimpse into the creative process of one of Broadway's most beloved and innovative voices.

Actors

• Audra McDonald - Performed "Send in the Clowns" with a nuanced understanding of the song's emotional complexity.
• Jarrod Spector - Played Frankie Valli in the original Broadway production of "Jersey Boys," showcasing Sondheim's ability to create memorable characters.
• Darren Criss - Lends his voice to a moving rendition of "Something's Coming" from "West Side Story," demonstrating Sondheim's knack for capturing youthful hope and angst.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Sondheim has won an Academy Award and eight Tony Awards, more than any other composer.
• Director James Lapine has worked with Sondheim on numerous occasions, including the musicals "Sunday in the Park with George," "Into the Woods," and "Passion."
• Despite his critical acclaim, Sondheim has often been known for being notoriously private, making this intimate look into his life and work a rare treat for fans.

Awards

Although "Six by Sondheim" did not win any awards, its subject, Stephen Sondheim, is one of the most decorated figures in the American theater, with a Pulitzer prize and a Presidential Medal of Freedom among his many accolades.

Quotes

• "Art, in itself, is an attempt to bring order out of chaos." - Stephen Sondheim
• "I chose and my world was shaken, so what? The choice may have been mistaken, the choosing was not." - From "Move On", Sondheim's song
• "You may know what you need, but to get what you want, better see that you keep what you have!" - From "Into the Woods", Sondheim's musical

Music, Soundtrack

• "I'm Still Here" - Performed by Jarvis Cocker
• "Something's Coming" - Performed by Darren Criss
• "Opening Doors" - Performed by America Ferrera, Jeremy Jordan, and Darren Criss