One of the Greats is Gone

I met Betty Comden backstage at the York Theater, after a performance of HALLELULAH BABY in which I played Harvey, when I first moved to city almost 6 years ago to this day. She and Adolph came to support the cast, and see a performance of one of their lesser performed musicals. I remember meeting them so vividly. They were (are) legends to me, and two of the great writers of musical theater whose work inspired me to take a shot at a career in show business.

Only a few months out of school, I couldn't believe I was actually meeting the great 'Comden & Green'! Yet there they were, with their glorious smiles, and cheerful praise of our work. I was particularly honored by their compliments of my performance as Harvey. They loved my singing so much, in fact, that they asked me if I was going to be auditioning for their upcoming revival of Bells Are Ringing. I relayed to them that I had recently asked my agent about getting me an audition for the lead role of Jeff, but was told I was too young. "Too young," Betty exclaimed! "That's what make-up is for. We'll put a little gray in your hair! Write down your agent's name for me and we'll place a call."

I almost freaked out. I couldn't believe I was talking to Betty and Adolph, let alone talking business :). I figured Betty was just being nice and that she'd never actually call, but I gave her the number anyway and left, thrilled to have met two of the greats, and know that they were as great in person as in name.

The next morning, after telling everyone I knew the story, I called my agent to relate the story to them as well. I nearly dropped the phone when my agent said, "Actually Aaron, Betty is on the other line, so let me set this up for you."

And sure enough, a few days later I was in front of Betty and Adolph again, in a room with Phyllis Newman, Tina Landau, and others, singing Harvey's NOT MINE from HALLELUJAH BABY and reading opposite Faith Prince for the lead role of Jeff Moss. I was greener than green (no pun intended), considerably younger than Mark Kudisch, but in heaven.

In the years since, I've been a part of one other Comden and Green show, ON THE TOWN, at the English National Opera in London. With Adolph gone and Betty not well enough to make the trip, we were honored to meet Adolph's son, who beamed with pride over our work. I only wish I got to see Betty to thank her again for her kindness years ago.

I will forever treasure my brief encounters with this legendary duo and their loved ones. Thank you Betty and Adolph for bringing such joy into a young actor's life by giving me the confidence to persevere with your kind words and glorious smiles. And on behalf of all of us on Broadway--you will both be dearly missed.

Rest in Peace.