Showtune: A Memoir by Jerry Herman

by Jerry Herman and Marilyn Stasio

Book Overview

This memoir is by the man who created the Broadway hits "Hello Dolly!," "Mame," and "La Cage Aux Folles." The self-described "Mr. Show Business, the razzmatazz musical comedy writer, a cheerful man... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1556115024
• ISBN13: 9781556115028
• Release Date: November 1996
• Publisher: Dutton Books
• Length: 288 Pages
• Weight: 1.38 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.4" x 9.5"

Customer Reviews

Hello, Jerry!

Showtune: A Memoir is one of the most in-depth memoir of a Broadway composer we have ever seen. It includes his childhood up to date of publication. Highlighted by touching memories and splendid photographs, Showtune is a must-have for any fan of the Great American Musical, let alone theater in general.

"Showtune" is as much fun as Jerry Herman's Music!

Jerry Herman's story of how a shy, quiet boy grew up to be one of the best-loved Broadway composers of all time is delightful. All lovers of Broadway music will enjoy this wonderful book, and the chance to "meet" Jerry, his terrific mother who inspired one of his most popular songs, and the rest of his mostly-merry gang of friends, family members and theatrical legends. There's plenty of behind-the-scenes shenanigans and information about musical technique that serious theater students will find informative, too.

THE MASTER IN HIS OWN WORDS

Anyone reading this review is undoubtedly familiar with Jerry Herman's great works for the American Musical Theatre. What makes this book courageous, as well, is his unstinting, unsentimental examination of his private life as an HIV-positive gay man. It is a story of joy and triumph in the most profound meaning of the words.

A Pleasant Conversation With A Gifted Composer/Lyricist

If you're already a fan of Jerry Herman's music, this will only enhance your enjoyment. If not, you'll still gain some insights into the making of a Broadway show. But if you're a serious student of the American musical theatre stage, there's not much here. Herman's memoir reads like a friendly conversation, over coffee after a good dinner. Better still, he sprinkles quotes from his lyrics liberally throughout his reminiscences. Herman talks about the actresses and actors who created his characters, and occasionally talks about himself. But not in depth, nor do you gain any real insight into Jerry Herman the private man. But you do get a glimpse of Jerry Herman, author of three, count them, musicals that ran for over 1,500 performances each. It's a treat, but a bit too sweet, almost cloying. But it's Jerry Herman, who can definitely say, "I am what I am!"

wonderful, entertaining upbeat book

A great upbeat memoir by the man who gave us great shows, such as Mame, Hello Dolly and the wonderful Mac and Mabel. This book is a classic, like the musicals. He is so full of life and a genuine fondness for both people and theater. I liked his stress on his lyrics, which are what he does best. Our best lyricist- composer of oldfashioned musicals and show tunes. I couldn't put the book down. I hope Jerry Herman writes some more musicals. I also hope he writes another book