This cross-section of Sondheim's catalog features two of his less frequently produced titles,Merrily and Assassins, and one of his most popular, Company. That piece from 1970, with a libretto by George Furth, was a substantial achievement for Sondheim. Though the protégé of Broadway lyricist and bookwriter Oscar Hammerstein II had penned the lyrics for West Side Story,Gypsy, and Do I Hear a Waltz?, and the words and music for A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and Anyone Can Whistle, Company was his first real validation as a composer. Despite previous and ongoing complaints that his music was too complex, he picked up Tony Awards for best score and best lyrics, the first of many such honors. Company's humor, thoughtful exploration of romantic commitment, and songs, including "Being Alive" and "The Ladies Who Lunch," have kept the show a favorite among theatre artists and audiences.