American Composer Series
The American Composer Series is an ongoing performance series in the cabaret revue format, paying tribute to the greatest composers of popular American music on the American scene, particularly those composers associated with Tin Pan Alley. Launched by musical director Earl Wentz in 2000 with a tribute to Ray Henderson titled It’s the Cherries, the series has continued to add new shows to its repertoire at the rate of one or two per year. As of 2009, the American Composer Series had created some 15 original revue tributes, many of them returning for multiple runs over the years.
American Composers and Shows in the Series
Each production in the series focuses on the work of one individual composer, working either alone or with a lyricist by creating songs for the stage, screen, radio, or television. Composers saluted in the series so far include Milton Ager, Harold Arlen, Nacio Herb Brown, Hoagy Carmichael, Sammy Fain, Ray Henderson, Victor Herbert, James V. Monaco, Richard Rodgers, Jule Styne, and Harry Warren.Productions presented in the American Composer Series as of 2008 include:As Long As There’s Music - 2000The Darktown Strutters' Ball - 2009It’s the Cherries – 2000, 2001Jubilee – 2000, 2001, 2004, 2005Love Is Where You Find It – 2002Ragtime Jimmie – 2005 Rodgers Without the H Factor – 2002Serenade – 2001Something Wonderful – 2002 Sweet Mystery – 2005 That Certain Smile – 2007 Vampin’ Lady – 2007, 2008 With A Song in My Heart – 2002 Wizard – 2004, 2005
In 2006, the producers of the series broke the format somewhat for two performances to pay tribute to the series’ founder, Earl Wentz, in “An American Composer Series Special Event.”