Robert Wright, 90; Composer, Lyricist for Musicals and Films

[do_re_milla]

Posted: 7/30/05 at 2:18pm

What a wonderfully productive career Wright & Forrest had!

"In 1937, they received their first major assignment: to create a new score, by reusing musical themes in the public domain, for the film version of the Sigmund Romberg musical "Maytime," starring Nelson Eddy and Jeanette MacDonald.

The same year, Wright and Forrest adapted a Rudolf Friml piano piece called 'Chansonette.' It became "The Donkey Serenade," a smash hit sung by Allan Jones in 'The Firefly.'"

I remember several yrs ago when the Regency closed & the Biograph opened as a 2nd run house, Frank the mgr featured "The Firefly." W&F came along with the wonderful Alan Jones to speak about writing for the films. It was a terrific day, 1 that I still remember fondly.

It turned out that Mr. Jones was a neighbor of mine & W&F were good friends of a good friend of mine. They were all generous with their time.

On a sad note, I think I remember when Mr. Wright started becoming fragile & he was here in NYC, he was exiting up the steps of 1 of the subways & 2 thugs mugged him & as I recall, he said that was it for him. I can't remember if he spent any more time here after that.

A gentle, nice man & part of very special team.

Milla

Robert Wright Updated On: 7/30/05 at 02:18 PM

[SueleenGay]

Posted: 7/30/05 at 2:27pm

Rest in Peace. Here is a good example of a composer who's songs are well known but who is not a household name. Thanks for posting this, Milla. And for your personal rememberances.

[do_re_milla]

Posted: 7/31/05 at 12:02am

Wright & Forrest were a prolific team. I wonder if 1 of the City's musical concert series will pay tribute to them this season. Seems to me like they deserve it.

Milla

[FranklinShepard-Inc.]

Posted: 7/31/05 at 5:18am

May he rest in peace, Kismet is a favorite of mine, as is Grand Hotel. I had no idea, Mr. Wright even still lived.

[phantom_tenor]

Posted: 7/31/05 at 5:41am

God rest his soul. I too am surprised he was still alive. He was reponsible for some of the most beautiful scores broadway has seen.

[alterego]

Posted: 7/31/05 at 9:38am

May he Rest In Peace. I had no idea he co wrote Donkey Serenade.