On March 24, 2020, we were forced to say goodbye to prolific playwright Terrence McNally. He died at age 81 from complications brought about by the coronavirus. The author of such acclaimed plays as The Ritz, Frankie and Johnny in the Clair De Lune, Love! Valour! Compassion!, The Lisbon Traviata, Master Class, and Lips Together, Teeth Apart, McNally was a particularly potent voice in gay theatre. McNally was also a celebrated librettist for the musical theatre, an award-winning book writer for some of Broadway’s most stirring and memorable musicals. Since this site is devoted to the Broadway musical, I wanted to take a moment to look at the glorious work McNally crafted in that arena.
A Broadway Playlist for People Who Miss Going to Work
As we continue with our self-isolation, we might find ourselves missing getting up each day and going to work. I know I sure do. So, once again, I put together another playlist for you, this one celebrating songs from the workplace, songs that celebrate a variety of professions, and songs that remind us that maybe sleeping in isn’t entirely the worst thing.
50 Upbeat and/or Optimistic Showtunes to Get Us Through
Let’s face it. It has been a daunting few days for most of us with all that is going on in the world at the moment. Whether you are feeling anxious, closed-in, confused, disheartened, or are soldiering through with determination and an upbeat attitude, we all could use a little pick-me-up as we adjust to social distancing, toilet paper hoarding, and recipes made from pasta and rice. In an effort to stay positive, I have put together a playlist to help you fill the time, a combination of songs that will make you smile and maybe offer you some hope.
Album Review: "Losing My Mind: A Sondheim Disco Fever Dream"
This month marks Stephen Sondheim’s 90th birthday, and there is much to celebrate regarding his music, his lyrics, and his influence over the shaping of musical theatre for the last sixty-plus years. As Mr. Sondheim becomes a nonagenarian, Broadway Records provides us with a unique way to explore his music. The new album “Losing My Mind: A Sondheim Disco Fever Dream” offers an “off-the-beaten-path” assemblage of many of his well-known (and lesser-known) tunes dished up in a decidedly clever format that evokes mirror balls, Donna Summer, and Studio 54.