"Lot of Livin'" dance scene from "Bye Bye Birdie" 1963 Bye Bye Birdie is a 1963 American musical comedy film based on the stage production of the same name. The screenplay was adapted from Michael Stewart's book for the musical by Irving Brecher, with music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Lee Adams. Directed by George Sidney. The film stars Dick Van Dyke in his feature film debut, reprising his Broadway role as Albert Peterson, along with Maureen Stapleton as Mae Peterson, Janet Leigh as Rosie