Howard Ashman
Howard Elliott Ashman (May 17, 1950 – March 14, 1991) was an American playwright, lyricist, and stage director, renowned for his significant contributions to musical theater and Disney animated films. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Ashman developed an early passion for music and theater, eventually earning his MFA from Indiana University. He moved to New York in 1974, where he became a pivotal figure in the city's theater scene.
Ashman co-founded the WPA Theater and served as its Artistic Director, where he collaborated with composer Alan Menken on the musical adaptation of Kurt Vonnegut’s "God Bless You, Mr. Rosewater." Their partnership flourished with the creation of "Little Shop of Horrors" in 1982, a musical that became a cult hit and enjoyed international success.
In 1986, Ashman wrote and directed the Broadway musical "Smile," which, despite its initial reception, is now appreciated as a hidden gem. His career took a transformative turn when he joined Disney, playing a crucial role in the Disney Renaissance. Ashman wrote the lyrics for "The Little Mermaid" (1989), "Beauty and the Beast" (1991), and contributed to "Aladdin" (1992), with Menken composing the music. His work on these films earned him two Academy Awards, among other accolades.
Despite being diagnosed with HIV during the production of "The Little Mermaid," Ashman continued to work tirelessly. He passed away from AIDS-related complications in 1991, just before the release of "Beauty and the Beast," which was dedicated to his memory. Ashman's legacy endures through his timeless contributions to musical theater and film, celebrated for his lyrical brilliance and the emotional depth he brought to his characters.
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