Our Broadway Babe, Randie Levine-Miller, pays tribute to Songwriter, Sheldon Harnick, who died yesterday, June 23 at the age of 99. He was working on his next project, at the time of his death. She’s posted a concert with Sheldon and his wife Margery, from 1981.  In addition, she’s found a hilarious Joan Rivers concert, as well as a delightful documentary about legendary talk show host, Mike Douglas. Also included is the musical, “Song & Dance” starring Bernadette Peters.

The Songwriters: An Evening with Sheldon Harnick

In memory of Sheldon Harnick (1924-2023)…”The Songwriters: An Evening with Sheldon Harnick.” From 1981, a wonderful concert of his work, with Sheldon hosting and sharing stories about his life as a lyricist, and his working with 20 composers, most notably, Jerry Bock.  Also featured in the concert is his wife (since 1965), Margery Gray. He and Jerry Bock won the Pulitzer Prize for “Fiorello”. His most notable work, of course, is “Fiddler On The Roof” which he wrote with Bock, and Joseph Stein, author of the book (who died at age 98 in 2010). When he died, he was working on a new show, with music, book and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick!  Enjoy this concert!  RIP, dear Sheldon. May his memory be for a blessing.

Randie with Sheldon Harnick and his wife Marjery Gray

Joan Rivers Standup

Joan Rivers was a comedic genius— which is the general consensus of so many of us.  Or, as she’d like to say, “The best comic in her price range!”  She was politically incorrect, and got away with it, although shortly before she died, she saw that comedy was changing, and felt that it might die with everyone seemingly becoming “politically correct” and overly sensitive.  This show is from 2006 and is totally hilarious.  Her comedy stands up today, as it’s still totally relevant. There was no one like Joan Rivers.  You might want to wear a “Depends” for this one!! Enjoy!

The Mike Douglas Show: Moments & Memories

This documentary from 2007, is a fabulous find, especially for baby boomers who remember the “Mike Douglas Show.”  The popular daily syndicated talk and variety show ran for 20 years. It featured music, comedy, politics and information. It was one of the most successful programs in daytime TV history. Mike came across as “a regular guy” and had the reputation of being a wonderful human being. He was a singer and there was lots of music on his show. He truly related to his guests and his audience. His show was never controversial and attracted some of the biggest stars in show business. Mike died in 2006… This is a documentary about his life and times in television and serves as a magnificent tribute to the legendary Mike Douglas!

Song and Dance

Starring Bernadette Peters, Charlotte D’amboise and Christopher D’amboise played on Broadway in 1985-86. Composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Don Black, it was directed by Richard Maltby and choreographed by Peter Martins. This was an unconventional musical…The first act was told in song. The second act was told in dance. Bernadette was great, but equally great were the incredible dancers, brother and sister Charlotte and Christopher D’amboise.

 Sidebar: I knew the extraordinary, late Jacques D’amboise, father of Christopher and Charlotte. He was a ballet dancer, choreographer, actor and internatlionally renowned educator,who also appeared in movies, most notably, “7 Brides for 7 Brothers” and “Carousel”. He was so down to earth and truly one of the sweetest and most humble human beings I’ve ever met. His passing was a true loss for the dance world.