Vivian Ellis

Vivian Ellis (1903–1996) was a celebrated English composer, lyricist, and author best known for his contributions to British musical theatre in the mid-20th century. With a flair for melodic charm and witty lyrics, Ellis wrote a series of successful West End musicals and light music compositions that earned him a prominent place in the pantheon of British theatre composers.

Born on October 29, 1903, in London, Ellis initially pursued a career as a concert pianist before turning his talents to composing for the stage. He rose to prominence in the 1920s and 1930s with a string of popular musicals, often collaborating with librettist Desmond Carter and later with A.P. Herbert. His early successes included Mr. Cinders (1928), a delightful twist on the Cinderella story featuring the enduring song “Spread a Little Happiness,” which became his signature hit.

Ellis had a gift for crafting light-hearted, tuneful scores that captured the spirit of the interwar and postwar periods. Among his many West End credits are Bless the Bride (1947), And So to Bed (1951), and Listen to the Wind (1955). Bless the Bride was a major hit in the post-WWII era and featured the song “This Is My Lovely Day,” which became a standard in the British songbook.

In addition to his theatrical work, Ellis composed orchestral light music and incidental scores for radio and television. He was also a founding member and longtime supporter of the Performing Right Society and championed young British composers throughout his life.

Later in his career, Ellis found renewed fame when “Spread a Little Happiness” was revived by Sting in the 1980s. In 1984, he was honored with a Laurence Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Musical Theatre, recognizing his lasting impact on British musical heritage.

Vivian Ellis passed away on June 19, 1996. His legacy endures through his contributions to the golden age of British musical theatre, his charming melodies, and his advocacy for musical excellence in the UK.