Fire Island Pines People- David Baker
David Baker was a historic figure in the growth of the arts in the Pines. He was passionate about the Pines and what he could bring to the community through his gift of music in composing…
David Baker and Sylvan Cole
founded FIPAP (Fire Island Arts Project) over 25 years ago. Offering musical revues and shows which tapped into the wealth of artistic talent in the Pines community.
Coming out to the Pines in the early seventies he started his career as a pianist for singer/ actress Judy Garland. His 1st show as a writer was a revue called “Phoenix 55”starring Nancy Walker who was a lifelong friend and visitor to the Pines. He worked as a composer, pianist, dance composer, and musical director for over 30 Broadway and off Broadway musicals. Revue was his favorite theatrical form.
He gave a great example of his taste when he wrote the book,music and lyrics for “Pine Needles” in 1981. It was presented by Laura Eastman for FIPPOA. It was a satire on life in the Pines. It included many community members such as John Whyte, Dorothy Levy and more. He went on to write and direct many productions for FIPAP.
He also served as musical director to Cherry Grove Drag Icon Bob (Rose) Levine.
1988
His Theater credits: Cabaret [Musical, Drama, Revival] Original Dance Music arranged by David Baker Mar 19, 1998 – Jan 04, 2004 Cabaret [Musical, Drama, Revival] Original Dance Arrangements: David Baker Oct 22, 1987 – Jun 04, 1988 The American Dance Machine [Special, Dance, Original] Associate Directed by David Baker Dance arrangements by David Baker Musical Director: David Baker Jun 14, 1978 – Dec 03, 1978 Rex [Musical, Original] Dance arrangements by David Baker Apr 25, 1976 – Jun 05, 1976 Come Summer [Musical, Original] Music by David Baker Mar 18, 1969 – Mar 22, 1969 Cabaret [Musical, Drama, Original] Dance arrangements by David Baker Nov 20, 1966 – Sep 06, 1969 The Yearling [Musical, Original] Dance Music by David Baker Dec 10, 1965 – Dec 11, 1965 Flora, The Red Menace [Musical, Original] Dance arrangements by David Baker, May 11, 1965 – Jul 24, 1965 Do Re Mi [Musical, Comedy, Original] Dance arrangements by David Baker Dec 26, 1960 – Jan 13, 1962 Vintage ’60 [Musical, Revue, Original] Additional Material By: David Baker Sep 12, 1960 – Sep 17, 1960 Copper and Brass [Musical, Comedy, Original] Music by David Baker Oct 17, 1957 – Nov 16, 1957 Phoenix ’55 [Musical, Revue, Original] Music by David Baker May 23, 1955 – Jul 17, 1955 Two’s Company [Musical, Revue, Original] Ballet Music by David Baker Assistant to Mr. Rosenstock: David Baker Dec 15, 1952 – Mar 08, 1953 Of Thee I Sing [Musical, Comedy, Revival] Dance arrangements by David Baker May 05, 1952 – Jul 05, 1952
