THEATRICAL THROWBACK THURSDAY: Judy, Barbra & Ethel Schmooze & Sing Spectacularly

By: Apr. 03, 2014
THEATRICAL THROWBACK THURSDAYS
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Today, BroadwayWorld is thrilled to kick off a brand new weekly column celebrating some classic celluloid moments from theatre history - whether culled from TV, film, vintage footage or even more obscure sources - with a very special focus on the best and brightest stars of yesteryear, thusly titled THEATRICAL THROWBACK THURSDAY!

Together

Our inaugural clip in today's TTT showcases three of the most iconic leading ladies of theatre and film in the 20th century collaborating to create a legendary TV and theatre moment for the ages byway of a cute and charming (albeit clearly somewhat scripted) conversation followed by a spine-tingling showstopper of a song as it was originally seen on THE JUDY GARLAND SHOW more than 50 years ago, way back in 1963.

"You really sing out - you really belt a song," the iconic living legend known the world over - and even beyond - as Judy tells the up-and-coming Streisand in the B&W clip.

Then, before your very eyes, musical theatre history is made: Ethel Merman joins in on the fun, too!

"I heard you two belting! I heard the noise and I came in here," Merman relates.

Before launching into the singing portion of the showcase, the trio touch upon Golden Age stalwart songwriting master Jule Styne, sharing their enthusiasm over both GYPSY and his then-upcoming new musical based on the life of Fanny Brice, set to star Streisand, FUNNY GIRL.

"Jule Styne?! He wrote GYPSY! You're in good hands, girl - really good hands," Merman confirms to Streisand, with Judy animatedly agreeing.

Of course, all of this is all too apropos here and now today given that FUNNY GIRL is being feted with a deluxe boxset coming later this year in honor of its 50th anniversary, to boot!

Plus, perhaps another major Jule Styne-related announcement of considerable note may very well be arriving shortly here on BroadwayWorld, as well. Until then, though, this one-two punch is sure to more than satiate your desire for belting brilliance - and guaranteed to wow you all the while, too.

After all, who could ask for anything more than this triptych of divas - sharing a laugh and splitting a song, no less!

View the classic clip of Judy Garland, Barbra Streisand and Ethel Merman candidly conversing before performing "There's No Business Like Show Business" below.

As a special bonus, take in Ethel and Judy teaming up for a miracle medley comprised of many of their hits, including the Jule Styne/Stephen Sondheim GYPSY earworm "Together (Wherever We Go)".

So, what is your absolute favorite part of the delectable exchange between these three theatrical heavyweights as seen in today's featured clip? Furthermore, what dream trio do you wish they had performed, even in your wildest fantasies? Whatever the answer, these clips are simply priceless.


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