Sandra Kraisirideja
Composer and lyricist Jerry Herman is in demand.
The Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles with guest artists Nancy
Dussault and Malcolm Gets, under Artistic Director Bruce Mayhall,
will pay tribute to Herman's successful Broadway career with "Jerry's
Boys!" on July 12 to 14 at The Alex Theatre in Glendale. Herman has
also released a new concept album titled, "Miss Spectacular," and
he's re-doing one of his earlier musicals, "Dear World."
"So much is happening at the same time, I never know what's coming
next," he said.
The concert at The Alex Theatre will feature songs from "Mame,"
"Hello Dolly!" and "La Cage aux Folles," among others.
Songs to be performed include: "Mame," "Bosom Buddies," "If He
Walked Into My Life," "Before the Parade Passes By," "It Only Takes a
Moment," "Time Heals Everything," "A Little More Mascara," "I Am What
I Am," "Shalom" and "I Don't Want to Know."
Herman will perform "I'll Be Here Tomorrow" and accompany Dussault
on "Where In The World Is My Prince" from "Miss Spectacular." He will
also sing in the finale.
Herman, 70, lives in Beverly Hills and has been in semi-retirement
since 1983. The release of "Miss Spectacular" and the concert by the
Gay Men's Chorus changed that.
"It's been a rebirth," he said.
Herman was honored when the chorus officials asked if they could
put together a show of his work. As an openly gay man, Herman thinks
the chorus reflects a positive gay image.
"Making music is a lovely way to show the world that we are a
group that needs to be respected," Herman said.
Chris Thomas of Glendale has been a member of the chorus for two
years.
"One of the things that has always amazed me is the diversity
within the chorus," he said. "And yet, despite our diversity, we
voluntarily come together and through our music, strive to be strong
role models, not only for our community, but for all communities."
Working on Herman's music has been a thrill for Thomas and he is
looking forward to meeting him.
"It is always great when a performer gets to meet the creator of
the work that is being performed and have that kind of personal
connection," he said.
