Stephen Sondheim's 75th: The Concert
at The Hollywood Bowl
July 8, 2005

Left to Right: Marilyn Bergman, Stephen Sondheim, Warren Beatty, Barbra Streisand

"I haven't been here since 1960-something," Barbra told the audience as she accepted a standing ovation at the Hollywood Bowl. "An Israeli tribute I think it was..." [Note: Barbra's last appearance was in 1968. The Barbra Archives site covered this appearance here >>]

"To sing a song of Sondheim's is a singer's reward. It's a gift, often a challenging and complex one, but always dazzling in its intelligence, wit, and compassion," Barbra said.

Barbra then introduced ASCAP President (and good friend) Marilyn Bergman, who joined Warren Beatty and Barbra onstage to present Sondheim with an award commemorating the creation of Children Will Listen, a Stephen Sondheim program of the ASCAP Foundation. Sondheim came onstage to accept the award.

"And one more thing!" Barbra exclaimed. "We'll all do this together, okay?" Barbra led the audience (accompanied by The Los Angeles Philharmonic with Paul Gemignani as Musical Director and Conductor) in a round of "Happy Birthday". Barbra quipped to Sondheim during the song, "Who said I didn't sing?"

The event was produced and directed by Paul Lazarus.

copyright © 2003-2007 Matt Howe