Jerry’s Girls at St James Studio

Jerry Herman, multiple Tony Award-winner, was one of the most successful composers on Broadway, writing timeless classics in shows such as Mame, Hello, Dolly! and La Cage aux Folles. Broadway Musical Revue Jerry’s Girls takes the audience through a journey of Herman’s life and most popular compositions. Instead of performing the pieces back-to-back, the three “girls”, Anna-Jane Casey, Ria Jones and Sarah-Louise Young, break up the musical acts with stories from Herman’s life. They slip into the roles of women who strongly influenced the composer, both personally and professionally.

Hilariously ironic impersonations of Barbra Streisand, Carol Channing and Angela Lansbury remind the audience of some of Broadway’s greatest female performers, bringing to life its most glamorous decades. Several times throughout the musical, interview recordings allow the deceased Herman to speak for himself.

St James Studio is a comparatively small venue: a typical Varieté theatre, the chairs are arranged around tables. The setting is crucial for the show, creating an intimate and relaxed atmosphere that enables the performers to leave the stage and roam through the audience. This interaction is nonchalant and fun, allowing the singers to showcase their natural charm.

Jerry’s Girls is a treat for anyone who loves musicals. Not only does it allow an insight into the history of Broadway, it does so with a wink and a smile. On top of that, the pieces are performed by very gifted artists; particularly impressive is I Am What I Am, one of Herman’s most popular compositions. Performed at the end of the show by Ria Jones, the song makes for a great final. The show is rewarded by the impressed audience with a standing ovation. 

Katharina Semke
Photo: Darren Bell

Jerry’s Girls is on at St James Studio from 3^rd until 15^th March 2015, for further information or to book visit visit here. For further information about Jerry Herman visit here.