Tony winning composer and lyricist Marc Shaiman will release a memoir in 2026.

Called Never Mind the Happy: Showbiz Stories From a Sore Winner, the book is set for publication by Regalo Press on January 27, 2026. 

Said Shaiman, “’Never mind the happy,’ my mother always says, but how could I not be happy about nearly 50 years in show business, where I have been blessed with startling successes (and yes, a few dire disappointments). So I figured it was time to write my memoir before I completely forget what I’ve done—or worse, before everyone else forgets! Whether movies, television or on Broadway, I guess my longevity actually proves that…You can’t stop the beat!”

In case that final line wasn't enough of a hint for you, Shaiman was the composer and lyricist behind one of the biggest Broadway hits of the 2000s, Hairspray, as well as an array of beloved cult classics. Since the late 1970s Shaiman has been strongly associated with his writing partner, lyricist Scott Wittman, with whom he has written some of his most famous material, including Hairspray. Though once romantically connected, the duo has remained steadfast professional partners, with their most recent effort, SMASH, playing Broadway just last season.

Shaiman's full Broadway credits, including his work as arranger and music director, include Up in One, Bette! Divine Madness, André DeShields' Haarlem Nocturne, Leader of the Pack, An Evening with Harry Connick Jr. and His Orchestra, Patti LuPone on Broadway, Hairspray, The Odd Couple, Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me, Catch Me If You Can, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Plaza Suite, Some Like It Hot, and SMASH.

In addition to his stage work, Shaiman is also a frequent collaborator on film and television scores, with his screen credits including Beaches, When Harry Met Sally, The Addams Family, Sister Act, A Few Good Men, Sleepless in Seattle, Hocus Pocus, Clueless, The First Wives Club, Patch Adams, SMASH, La La Land, Mary Poppins Returns, and South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut.