Based on Sam Harris’ autobiography, Ham: Slices of a Life, this musical theater production features Sam Harris himself, telling his own story of struggle and final acceptance of himself as a gay man. Tremendously talented as an actor, comedian, singer, dancer, and songwriter, Sam plays the role of twelve characters, including himself, in the musical play.
Sam is accompanied by songwriter Todd Schroeder on piano. Several of the songs are written by Sam, or, Todd and Sam together, and include: “An Open Book," “Ham," “Colored Town," and “Sweet Dreams."
Setting the stage with comedy, Sam captures the audience from the start. He describes how he came to be a ham, from his first experience singing at the football stadium in Sands Springs, Oklahoma at age three, to his role as a Polynesian boy in South Pacific at age five, and his hilarious attempt to get the role of Helen Keller in The Miracle Worker.
After many parts in elementary school, he goes on to perform and win talent show competitions in high school. During his sophomore year, Sam meets Rochelle and attends her church with a predominantly Black congregation. Sam is enthralled with the joyous singing and realizes what’s important is why you are singing.
At age 15, Sam gets a summer role at Opryland in “I Hear America Singing," a one-hour nonstop production with 75 songs and over 100 costume changes. While in Nashville, Sam falls in love with Scott Pierce and soon realizes the perils of such a difficult relationship.
After Sam returns home, he is sad, realizes he can’t tell anyone and tries to mask his feelings with theater. He attempts suicide but is thwarted when his brother gets hurt and Sam has to help him. Sam realizes to heal, he must leave his hometown, and, he heads to Santa Monica where he sings blues and meets Jerry—writer, director, and producer—who helps him launch his career.
In Hollywood, Sam Harris makes a name for himself and is invited to appear on Hollywood’s talent show Star Search, hosted by Ed McMahon. His theatrical career blooming, Sam goes on to produce platinum records, appears in Broadway plays, performs at Carnegie Hall, and goes on world tours.
Despite Sam’s success, he wrestles with his insecurities and differentness. Full of great humor, emotion, and wonderful songs, Sam Harris’ outstanding performance in Ham, A Musical Memoir should not be missed. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P.