Celebrating the Life of Jerry Herman with Jane Dorian

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka hosts Jane Dorian, goddaughter and dedicated manager of the works of Jerry Herman, the iconic composer and lyricist behind Broadway classics such as Hello Dolly, La Cage Aux Folles, and Mame. Together, they explore the life, career, and everlasting legacy of Herman, whose music continues to inspire generations.

Key Topics Discussed

1. The Legacy of Jerry Herman

• Jerry Herman’s enduring influence on Broadway and the LGBTQ+ community through his work on shows like La Cage Aux Folles and songs like I Am What I Am.
• Highlights of Herman's notable songs from Hello Dolly and other productions, such as We Need a Little Christmas and Before the Parade Passes By.

2. The Little-Known Facts

• Jerry Herman's unexpected involvement in writing the theme song for Barney the Dinosaur. Jane shares a heartwarming story about how Herman, as her daughter’s godfather, was inspired by her love for Barney.
• Louis Armstrong’s spontaneous recording of Hello Dolly, which unexpectedly became a massive hit, even surpassing The Beatles on the charts.

3. Hello Dolly and Its Significance

• The impact of Hello Dolly in the U.S. after President Kennedy's assassination, serving as a symbol of hope and second chances.
• The iconic role of Dolly was originally offered to Broadway legends like Ethel Merman and Mary Martin before Carol Channing made it legendary.

4. La Cage Aux Folles and Breaking Boundaries

• La Cage Aux Folles broke new ground by depicting gay families and advocating for acceptance during the early 1980s. The show's influence went beyond entertainment, addressing deep societal issues and promoting the visibility of LGBTQ+ families.

5. Jerry Herman’s Memorial and His Final Wishes

• Jane recalls the bittersweet experience of organizing Jerry Herman’s memorial, which featured Broadway stars such as Bernadette Peters, Leslie Uggams, and Betty Buckley.
• Herman's decision to be buried next to his mother and Jane's mother, leading to the auctioning of his crypt next to Marilyn Monroe and Hugh Hefner.

Notable Stories

• Jerry Herman’s unique approach to songwriting: Herman, along with Irving Berlin, was one of the few renowned composer-lyricists who couldn't read music.
• Herman's sense of humor and how it influenced his life and work, including lighthearted moments spent renaming paintings in New York museums with Jane.
• The relationship between Herman and Angela Lansbury, where Herman coached Lansbury for her role in Mame, sneaking into the audition to play her songs.

Actionable Advice or Tips

• Jerry Herman’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience in the face of challenges, such as his ability to persevere after several Broadway failures.
• Young musicians and creatives can be inspired by Herman’s commitment to nurturing talent through the Jerry Herman/ASCAP Foundation Musical Theater Scholarship Program.

Guest Information

• Jane Dorian is the goddaughter of Jerry Herman and has made it her mission to keep his legacy alive through revivals of his work and managing his estate. She shares touching anecdotes and previously unknown stories about Herman’s life.

Conclusion

Jerry Herman’s life and work continue to resonate with people around the world. His musicals, full of joy, optimism, and deeper meaning, endure through constant revivals. For more information on his works and legacy, listeners can visit:

• JerryHerman.com
• Studio Auctions for Jerry Herman's Crypt
• Doyle Auctions for Memorabilia

Dr. Allen Lycka's Final Thoughts

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