SHORT TAKES : ‘Rodgers’ Returns to Broadway

NEW YORK — Dorothy Rodgers, the widow of Richard Rodgers, welcomed the renaming of a Broadway theater for the composer of such musicals as “Oklahoma!” “South Pacific,” “The King and I” and “The Sound of Music.”

“It’s such a great day for Dick,” she said Tuesday at the renaming of the 46th Street Theater.

The Richard Rodgers Theater, built in 1924, has been home to some of Broadway’s biggest musical hits, including “Guys and Dolls,” “Damn Yankees” and “How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.”

The theater now contains a permanent exhibit of Rodgers’ sheet music, theater posters and photographs.

During the ceremony, the composer, who died in 1979, was celebrated in song by such performers as Rosemary Clooney, Debby Boone, George Hearn and Karen Akers.

“To name just one theater after Richard Rodgers isn’t enough,” said Rupert Holmes, whose new play, “Accomplice,” will begin preview performances at the theater April 6.