Ethel Merman, American actress and singer (b. 1908)

Ethel Merman: The Undisputed First Lady of the Musical Stage

Ethel Merman, born Ethel Agnes Zimmermann on January 16, 1908, in Astoria, Queens, New York, and passing on February 15, 1984, was an extraordinary American actress, captivating artist, and unparalleled singer. Celebrated primarily for her distinctive, brassy, and incredibly powerful voice, coupled with her commanding leading roles in musical theatre, she unequivocally earned the moniker "the undisputed First Lady of the musical comedy stage." Her unique vocal quality, characterized by its immense projection and crystal-clear diction, allowed her to effortlessly fill even the largest Broadway houses without the aid of microphones, a remarkable feat in early 20th-century theatre that solidified her legendary status.

A Legendary Broadway Career

Throughout her illustrious career in theater, spanning over four decades, Merman became synonymous with iconic performances that left an indelible mark on Broadway history. She brought to life some of the most memorable characters in musical theatre, defining roles in beloved shows such as:

• Anything Goes: Originating the role of Reno Sweeney in Cole Porter's classic 1934 musical, Merman's performance introduced audiences to a new level of stage presence and comedic timing.
• Annie Get Your Gun: As Annie Oakley in Irving Berlin's 1946 triumph, she delivered one of her most celebrated portrayals, showcasing her feisty spirit and vocal prowess.
• Gypsy: Her tour-de-force performance as the indomitable Rose in the original 1959 Broadway production is often cited as one of the greatest in musical theatre history, demonstrating her dramatic range alongside her powerful vocals.
• Hello, Dolly!: Merman took on the titular role later in the show's run, famously performing it for a limited engagement in 1970, which garnered immense acclaim and record-breaking ticket sales.

Beyond the Stage: Film Roles and Esteemed Accolades

While primarily a titan of the stage, Ethel Merman also graced the silver screen, often reprising her signature roles or showcasing her comedic flair. Her notable film appearances include:

• Anything Goes (1936): Bringing her Broadway role of Reno Sweeney to a wider audience.
• Call Me Madam (1953): A film adaptation where she reprised her Tony Award-winning stage performance.
• There's No Business Like Show Business (1954): A musical comedy where she famously performed the song that would become her anthem.
• It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World (1963): A departure from her typical musical roles, this star-studded comedic epic allowed her to shine with her sharp wit and boisterous personality.

Her exceptional talent did not go unnoticed, earning her numerous accolades. Merman received the prestigious Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her unforgettable performance as Sally Adams in Call Me Madam in 1951. Her definitive recording as Mama Rose in the Original Broadway Cast Album of Gypsy earned her a Grammy Award in 1960. Later in her career, she was honored with a special Drama Desk Award for her farewell appearance in Hello, Dolly! in 1970, acknowledging her enduring impact on the theatrical landscape. Her legacy was further cemented with a Kennedy Center Honor in 1974.

Defining an Era: Signature Songs and Musical Standards

Ethel Merman was responsible for introducing a remarkable number of songs that would become enduring musical standards, forever associated with her definitive interpretations. These tracks, often from the original Broadway productions she starred in, became integral parts of the American songbook:

• From Girl Crazy (1930): "I Got Rhythm" – a George Gershwin classic that launched Merman into stardom and became an immediate hit.
• From Gypsy (1959), where she starred as Rose:
  • "Everything's Coming Up Roses" – an anthem of ambition and determination.
  • "Some People" – a powerful declaration of intent.
  • "Rose's Turn" – a show-stopping, emotionally charged monologue set to music, often regarded as one of Broadway's most iconic numbers.
• Cole Porter Classics: Merman was a quintessential interpreter of Porter's witty and sophisticated lyrics:
  • "It's De-Lovely" (from Red, Hot and Blue, 1936)
  • "Friendship" (from Du Barry Was a Lady, 1939)
  • "I Get a Kick Out of You", "You're the Top", and "Anything Goes" (all from Anything Goes, 1934)

Ultimately, the Irving Berlin song "There's No Business Like Show Business," written specifically for the musical Annie Get Your Gun, transcended its original context to become Ethel Merman's indelible signature song. Its celebratory lyrics about the glamour and demanding nature of show business perfectly encapsulated her own career and persona, making her the definitive voice for this theatrical anthem.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ethel Merman

What made Ethel Merman's voice so distinctive?

Ethel Merman possessed a unique, powerful mezzo-soprano voice with an incredibly strong chest register. Her exceptional vocal projection allowed her to sing unamplified in large theatres, and her clear, precise diction ensured every word was heard. This distinctive sound became her trademark and set her apart on the Broadway stage.

Which Broadway roles are Ethel Merman most famous for?

Ethel Merman is most famous for originating leading roles in several iconic Broadway musicals, including Reno Sweeney in Anything Goes, Annie Oakley in Annie Get Your Gun, and Mama Rose in Gypsy. Her portrayal of Rose is often considered one of the greatest performances in musical theatre history.

Did Ethel Merman star in film adaptations of her Broadway shows?

Yes, Ethel Merman did star in several film adaptations of her successful Broadway shows, most notably reprising her roles in Anything Goes (1936) and Call Me Madam (1953). This allowed a broader audience to experience her legendary stage performances.

What is Ethel Merman's signature song?

Ethel Merman's signature song is "There's No Business Like Show Business" from the musical Annie Get Your Gun. She introduced the song on Broadway, and its enduring popularity, coupled with her powerful rendition, made it synonymous with her career and the spirit of show business itself.

What major awards did Ethel Merman receive?

Ethel Merman received a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her performance in Call Me Madam, a Grammy Award for the Original Broadway Cast Album of Gypsy, and a special Drama Desk Award for her final Broadway appearance in Hello, Dolly! She was also honored with a Kennedy Center Honor.