Episode 143: Ethel Merman

Broadway’s greatest belter and star of GYPSY, ANNIE GET YOUR GUN, and CALL ME MADAM is honored with highlights from her 50-year career. From GIRL CRAZY to HELLO, DOLLY!, Merman dazzled audiences with her performances and powerful, brassy voice. Listen as she recalls working with Cole Porter, Bert Lahr, and Irving Berlin to create the roles that would go down in history. Ira Gershwin, Bob Hope and Stephen Sondheim talk about working with the Queen of Musical Comedy.

Featured songs: “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “I Got Rhythm,” “You’re The Top,” “I Get A Kick Out Of You,” “It’s De-Lovely,” “A Lady Needs A Change,” “Friendship,” “I Got The Sun In The Morning,” “They Say It’s Wonderful,” “Everything’s Coming Up Roses,” “Rose’s Turn,” and “World Take Me Back.” 

Originally produced and broadcast in 1986. Theme music arranged by Bruce Coughlin. Sound mixing by David Rapkin. Associate producer Jeff Lunden. Anything Goes – Backstage with Broadway’s Best – is produced and hosted by Paul Lazarus.