Showtune: A Memoir

Rating:
Summary: THE MASTER IN HIS OWN WORDS
Review: 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.

Rating:
Summary: A Pleasant Conversation With A Gifted Composer/Lyricist
Review: 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!"

Rating:
Summary: "Showtune" is as much fun as Jerry Herman's Music!
Review: 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.

Rating:
Summary: "Showtune" is as much fun as Jerry Herman's Music!
Review: 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.