Fynsworth Alley to Hold Re-Release Party for The Ethel Merman Disco Album

The Ethel Merman Disco Album — the 1970s camp and cult favorite featuring one of Broadway’s most luminous stars — is about to be re-released by Fynsworth Alley, and the event will be celebrated with a party at SPA in New York City.

Originally issued by A&M records in 1979, the album has the Broadway legend singing such standards as "Alexander’s Ragtime Band," "Everything’s Coming Up Roses," and "There’s No Business Like Show Business," complete with a festive disco beat and a cooing back-up chorus. Produced, arranged, and conducted by Peter Matz, the LP went out of print quickly. This CD reissue, produced by Bill Meade, features the previously unheard bonus track "They Say It’s Wonderful."

Merman starred in high-profile musicals by some of Broadway’s most prolific and talented composers, including Cole Porter and Irving Berlin. Among the many famous shows in which she created roles: Girl Crazy, Anything Goes, Red, Hot, and Blue, DuBarry Was a Lady, Annie Get Your Gun, Call Me Madam, and Gypsy. She was also the last Dolly in the original Broadway production of Hello, Dolly!, finally taking the opportunity to play a role that had been written with her in mind.

Fysnworth Alley will host a release party for the Merman disco CD at SPA, located at 76 East 13th Street, on January 23 from 10pm to midnight; persons age 21 and over should RSVP by phoning 212-352-4455 if they wish to attend the festivities, which will include CD giveaways and prizes for the best "Ethel-inspired outfit." The Ethel Merman Disco Album will be available in stores on January 28 but is currently available for purchase through the Fynsworth Alley website.