All tagged La Cage Aux Folles

Remembering Jerry Herman and the Joyous Music He Made

Remembering Jerry Herman and the Joyous Music He Made

Mark Robinson
Music That Makes Me Dance

On December 26, 2019 we lost one of Broadway’s greatest composers, one who infused every song he penned with emotion and a deep understanding of the character for whom he was writing. Jerry Herman, with his melody and lyrics, brought to life some of musical theatre’s most colorful and unforgettable characters, reminding us to celebrate life. One should not underestimate the joy, pure, unadulterated joy that he brought to us through songs for characters like Dolly Levi, Mame Dennis, Georges and Albin. This kind of fun, melody and embrace of the human spirit is rare in the contemporary musical theatre, something that is sorely lacking. Though he hadn’t written for the musical stage in some time, with Herman’s passing, we have lost a one-of-a-kind voice from a time where musical comedy scores were joyous, infectious, warm, and, most importantly, illuminating without being starkly literal. 

The Best Musical Tony Award Debate: 1984

The Best Musical Tony Award Debate: 1984

Mark Robinson
Music That Makes Me Dance

For “The Best Musical Tony Award Debate”, my new weekly series, I will take a look at the musicals nominated for Best Musical in one Tony Season, discuss and debate the contenders, theorize why the winner won, and offer my personal opinions on whether or not the voters got it right. This week’s installment looks at 1984 where four incredibly diverse musicals squared-off against each other for the coveted prize of Best Musical. The contenders were La Cage aux Folles, Sunday in the Park with George, The Tap Dance Kid, and Baby, each boasting qualities that merited their respective nomination. Let’s take a look at these pieces individually before comparing and contrasting their virtues toward who should be the rightful champion.  

New York Musical Hits That Didn’t Fly in London

New York Musical Hits That Didn’t Fly in London

Mark Robinson
Music That Makes Me Dance

A Broadway hit doesn’t always necessarily translate to a universal hit. There have been many musicals that opened in New York City, but when they premiered in London’s West End, they failed to ignite with audiences. In some cases, it was the production that floundered and the show proved to be a hit at a later date. Here are some musicals that were hits in NYC, but initially failed in the West End. 

“I Am What I Am”: Musicals for Pride Month

“I Am What I Am”: Musicals for Pride Month

Robbie Rozelle
Music That Makes Me Dance

With June being Gay Pride month and the month drawing to a close, I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate here at Mark Robinson Writes than to take a look at some of the musicals that that have told the story of those who have been marginalized by society simply for who and how they identify and love. Progress has been made over the years, though we have certainly slipped back in the last few years, our voice is strong and proud. This list certainly isn’t all-inclusive, but it is one I think captures the best of what musical theatre has done to tell the story of the LGBTQ community.

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