Historic Partnership Honors Oscar Hammerstein II Across Bucks County

New “Oscar, James and Pearl” Initiative Features Free Public Programs, Cultural Passport and Countywide Partnership

NEW HOPE, Pa. — Four of Bucks County’s premier cultural institutions have joined together for the first time to present Oscar, James and Pearl: Exploring the Legacy of South Pacific, a monthlong celebration honoring the life, work and Bucks County connections of legendary lyricist and librettist Oscar Hammerstein II.

The collaboration brings together Bucks County Playhouse, the Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theatre Education Center, the Michener Art Museum and the Pearl S. Buck House to explore Hammerstein’s artistic achievements, humanitarian values and enduring regional legacy while highlighting his connections to fellow Bucks County icons Pearl S. Buck and James A. Michener.

Inspired by Hammerstein’s July birthday and Bucks County Playhouse’s production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific through July 26, the initiative features free public programs, special events and a cultural passport designed to encourage audiences to experience Bucks County’s rich artistic and historical resources.

“Pearl S. Buck International is excited to be a part of this incredible collaboration, which is truly reminiscent of the friendship and partnership Ms. Buck shared with Oscar Hammerstein II and James Michener,” said Cheryl Castro, President and CEO of Pearl S. Buck International. “The brilliance and talent that Bucks County has produced—from classic literature to beloved musical theater—creates the perfect opportunity for our organizations to come together.”

“At Bucks County Playhouse, we are proud to celebrate Oscar Hammerstein II, whose work transformed American musical theater and remains an important part of Bucks County’s cultural history,” said Nicole Hackmann, Executive Director of Bucks County Playhouse. “This collaboration allows audiences to experience South Pacific while discovering the life, work and legacy of one of America’s greatest theatrical artists.”

Throughout July, each participating organization will host a free public program exploring a different aspect of Hammerstein’s life, influence and humanitarian vision. The series concludes on Wednesday, July 29, at 4 p.m. at the Pearl S. Buck House with Taking Action Through Storytelling: Pearl S. Buck and Oscar Hammerstein. The program will examine how two of Bucks County’s most influential cultural figures used storytelling, literature and the arts to inspire understanding, foster compassion and advance social change.

Organizers hope the initiative will encourage audiences to discover new cultural institutions, deepen their connection to Bucks County’s history and experience the power of collaboration among the region’s arts and heritage organizations.

Advance registration is required. Additional details, registration for free events and passport sales are available at BucksCountyPlayhouse.org or by calling 215-862-2121.