A tribute to Jerry Herman, the Broadway composer-lyricist of such shows as Hello, Dolly!, Mame, and La Cage aux Folles, this two-hour concert recorded live at the Hollywood Bowl in 1993 features orchestral medleys performed by the Los Angeles Philharmonic conducted by Don Pippin (who was also musical director for many of the original shows), as well as performances by a parade of stars—among them Carol Channing, Bea Arthur, Michael Feinstein, George Hearn, Lorna Luft, Rita Moreno, and Leslie Uggams (it's unfortunate that Angela Lansbury, the original Mame, wasn't able to appear in person, but some old footage shows her strutting her stuff in the show, and she sends recorded regards, as do Liza Minnelli and Paul McCartney). The standout numbers are those in which members of the original casts recreate moments in which they triumphed (Arthur in Mame, Hearn in La Cage aux Folles, Channing in Hello, Dolly!), and it's nice that no fewer than five songs are included from 1974's Mack & Mabel, which boasted one of the best scores ever written for a Broadway flop. At other times, the entertainment value is more spotty, and there's a whiff of vanity production here, not only in the numerous shots of Herman beaming in the audience but also in the final number when he comes onstage to lead a prolonged chorus of “The Best of Times” from La Cage aux Folles. But there's no denying that Herman has written some catchy tunes, and aficionados of the musical stage will find this program—boasting Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS sound options—to be a pleasant reminder. A strong optional purchase. Aud: P. (F. Swietek)
Jerry Herman's Broadway at the Hollywood Bowl
(2006) 113 min. DVD: $19.99. Image Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). Color cover. Volume 21, Issue 5
Jerry Herman's Broadway at the Hollywood Bowl
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