Lionel Bart

Synopsis

Composer and lyricist Lionel Bart, who died in 1999, had a remarkable, if chequered, career. He first found success writing hit records in the 1950s and went on to pen a string of musicals – including the ever-popular Oliver! – which brought him enormous fame and riches. A big spender whose generosity was exploited by others, he became addicted to drugs and alcohol. Failure, bankruptcy and obscurity followed. In the 1990s, the inimitable Bart bounced back. Seen working on a revival of Oliver! in London's West End, he tells his story in a lively documentary filled with his music.

Additional Info

• No: R0653
• Production year: 1995
• Run time: 00:52:00
• Director: Daniel Wiles
• Producers: RM Arts, The South Bank Show
• Format: HDTV