Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway's Harmony

“Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony” is a podcast produced by Harmony: A New Musical and Broadway News. Songs In This Episode (from Harmony): "Overture" “Stars In The Night” Guests In This Episode (in order of appearance): Warren Carlyle Beowulf Boritt Peggy Eisenhauer Dan Moses Schreier Linda Cho Ricky Lurie Mentioned In This Episode: ⁠Watch Broadway's Harmony perform "Rhapsody #20" ⁠ ⁠Watch the entire titular song "Harmony" ⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Comedian Harmonists perform together⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn More About The Comedian Harmonists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thecomedianharmonists.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn More About Harmony A New Musical: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.harmonyanewmusical.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In 1927, a young man in Germany placed an ad in the local paper: “Attention. Rare opportunity. Tenor, Bass (professional singer not over 25), musically talented, nice-sounding voices, for unique ensemble. Kindly give days and times when available [for rehearsals, etc.]” Out of that two-line ad, came one of the most celebrated music acts of the 20th century: the Comedian Harmonists. The internationally renowned vocal group made over 200 recordings, performed in over 150 concerts around the world and appeared in numerous films. They played the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Coliseum and Radio City Music Hall. And yet, for most, the name “Comedian Harmonists” doesn’t ring a bell. How could that be? Well, the Comedian Harmonists rose to fame in the late 1920s and early 1930s in Germany — and half of its members were Jewish. Because of this, the Nazi regime designated the work of the Comedian Harmonists “degenerate art” and much of it was destroyed. Lost to history. But…not all of it. The little that there was inspired writer Bruce Sussman to dig into the story of the Comedian Harmonists and, with his artistic partner Barry Manilow, create a musical uncovering their music, artistry and stories for the world to know and remember. “Harmony” officially opened on Broadway November 13, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater . And yet, there is only so much history one can fit into a Broadway musical. As Bruce said… “I just needed to simplify, pair it down.” “There were so many things that I could have done, but I had to make choices. As Sondheim famously wrote, the choice may be wrong, but the choosing is right.” Harmony closed on February 4, 2024 but the lost history it resurrected is worth a closer look. In this podcast, “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony”, we’re digging deeper into the true story of the Comedian Harmonists. I’m your host, Ruthie Fierberg, executive editor of Broadway News. Over the course of this series, we’ll dive into the full history of the Comedian Harmonists — it’s more complicated than you think. We’ll learn the details about each of the six famous singers — where they grew up, their musical specialty, their personal lives and what happened after their time with the group. Plus, you’ll hear from creatives and cast members about using this history to create “Harmony” onstage. Join us. There’s a lot to uncover. Host: Ruthie Fierberg Editor: Daniel Pineiro Producers: Harmony A New Musical, Broadway News

“Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony” is a podcast produced by Harmony: A New Musical and Broadway News. Songs In This Episode (from Harmony): "Overture" “Stars In The Night” "Threnody" "Harmony" Guests In This Episode (in order of appearance): Bruce Sussman Jan Grübler Eric Peters Chip Zien Danny Kornfeld Sean Bell Mentioned In This Episode: Watch Chip Zien perform "Threnody" in Harmony Watch the opening scene in Harmony as described in this episode  Watch Broadway's Harmony perform "Rhapsody #20"  Watch the real Josef Roman Cycowski in an interview  Watch the entire titular song "Harmony"  ⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Comedian Harmonists perform together⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn More About The Comedian Harmonists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thecomedianharmonists.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn More About Harmony A New Musical: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.harmonyanewmusical.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In 1927, a young man in Germany placed an ad in the local paper: “Attention. Rare opportunity. Tenor, Bass (professional singer not over 25), musically talented, nice-sounding voices, for unique ensemble. Kindly give days and times when available [for rehearsals, etc.]” Out of that two-line ad, came one of the most celebrated music acts of the 20th century: the Comedian Harmonists. The internationally renowned vocal group made over 200 recordings, performed in over 150 concerts around the world and appeared in numerous films. They played the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Coliseum and Radio City Music Hall. And yet, for most, the name “Comedian Harmonists” doesn’t ring a bell. How could that be? Well, the Comedian Harmonists rose to fame in the late 1920s and early 1930s in Germany — and half of its members were Jewish. Because of this, the Nazi regime designated the work of the Comedian Harmonists “degenerate art” and much of it was destroyed. Lost to history. But…not all of it. The little that there was inspired writer Bruce Sussman to dig into the story of the Comedian Harmonists and, with his artistic partner Barry Manilow, create a musical uncovering their music, artistry and stories for the world to know and remember. “Harmony” officially opened on Broadway November 13, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater . And yet, there is only so much history one can fit into a Broadway musical. As Bruce said… “I just needed to simplify, pair it down.” “There were so many things that I could have done, but I had to make choices. As Sondheim famously wrote, the choice may be wrong, but the choosing is right.” Harmony closed on February 4, 2024 but the lost history it resurrected is worth a closer look. In this podcast, “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony”, we’re digging deeper into the true story of the Comedian Harmonists. I’m your host, Ruthie Fierberg, executive editor of Broadway News. Over the course of this series, we’ll dive into the full history of the Comedian Harmonists — it’s more complicated than you think. We’ll learn the details about each of the six famous singers — where they grew up, their musical specialty, their personal lives and what happened after their time with the group. Plus, you’ll hear from creatives and cast members about using this history to create “Harmony” onstage. Join us. There’s a lot to uncover. Host: Ruthie Fierberg Editor: Daniel Pineiro Producers: Harmony A New Musical, Broadway News

“Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony” is a podcast produced by Harmony: A New Musical and Broadway News. Songs In This Episode (from Harmony): “Stars In The Night” "We're Goin' Loco" Guests In This Episode (in order of appearance): Jan Grübler Chip Zien (Voice of "Albert Einstein") Allison Semmes, "Josephine Baker" Mentioned In This Episode: Listen to "Sous le ciel d'Afrique" Listen to “Espabilate” ⁠⁠⁠Watch the Comedian Harmonists perform together⁠⁠⁠ Learn More About The Comedian Harmonists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thecomedianharmonists.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn More About Harmony A New Musical: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.harmonyanewmusical.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In 1927, a young man in Germany placed an ad in the local paper: “Attention. Rare opportunity. Tenor, Bass (professional singer not over 25), musically talented, nice-sounding voices, for unique ensemble. Kindly give days and times when available [for rehearsals, etc.]” Out of that two-line ad, came one of the most celebrated music acts of the 20th century: the Comedian Harmonists. The internationally renowned vocal group made over 200 recordings, performed in over 150 concerts around the world and appeared in numerous films. They played the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Coliseum and Radio City Music Hall. And yet, for most, the name “Comedian Harmonists” doesn’t ring a bell. How could that be? Well, the Comedian Harmonists rose to fame in the late 1920s and early 1930s in Germany — and half of its members were Jewish. Because of this, the Nazi regime designated the work of the Comedian Harmonists “degenerate art” and much of it was destroyed. Lost to history. But…not all of it. The little that there was inspired writer Bruce Sussman to dig into the story of the Comedian Harmonists and, with his artistic partner Barry Manilow, create a musical uncovering their music, artistry and stories for the world to know and remember. “Harmony” officially opened on Broadway November 13, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater . And yet, there is only so much history one can fit into a Broadway musical. As Bruce said… “I just needed to simplify, pair it down.” “There were so many things that I could have done, but I had to make choices. As Sondheim famously wrote, the choice may be wrong, but the choosing is right.” Harmony closed on February 4, 2024 but the lost history it resurrected is worth a closer look. In this podcast, “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony”, we’re digging deeper into the true story of the Comedian Harmonists. I’m your host, Ruthie Fierberg, executive editor of Broadway News. Over the course of this series, we’ll dive into the full history of the Comedian Harmonists — it’s more complicated than you think. We’ll learn the details about each of the six famous singers — where they grew up, their musical specialty, their personal lives and what happened after their time with the group. Plus, you’ll hear from creatives and cast members about using this history to create “Harmony” onstage. Join us. There’s a lot to uncover. Host: Ruthie Fierberg Editor: Daniel Pineiro Producers: Harmony A New Musical, Broadway News

“Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony” is a podcast produced by Harmony: A New Musical and Broadway News. Table of Contents: 2:16 - Erna/Marion Kiss 8:59 - Olga Bertha Wolff 14:45 - Fernande, Suzanne, and Anna Marie Collin 37:50 - Mary Magedalena Panzram 48:15 - Hilde Longino 48:50 - Ella 49:22 - Delphine David 51:08 - Saschka Andrejeva Siderova 52:00 - Ursula Elkan 1:01:42 - Ruth Sametzki 1:02:19 - Helga Gade 1:03:43 - "Ruth" in Harmony Songs In This Episode (from Harmony): “Stars In The Night” "Overture" "And What Do You See" "Every Single Day" "Where You Go" Guests In This Episode (in order of appearance): Bruce Sussman Jan Grübler Zal Owen Marc Alexander, Erich's grandchild Deborah Tint, Erich's grandchild Sierra Boggess Beryn Hammil, Ursula's daughter Julie Benko Mentioned In This Episode: Listen to Episode 2 featuring Harry Frommermann Listen to Episode 3 featuring Erich Collin Listen to Episode 4 featuring Josef Roman Cycowski Watch Mary and Josef Roman Cycowski Playing Cards Listen to Episode 5 featuring Robert Biberti Listen to Episode 6 featuring Ari Leschnikoff Listen to Episode 7 featuring Erwin Bootz ⁠⁠Watch the Comedian Harmonists perform together⁠⁠ Learn More About The Comedian Harmonists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thecomedianharmonists.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn More About Harmony A New Musical: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.harmonyanewmusical.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In 1927, a young man in Germany placed an ad in the local paper: “Attention. Rare opportunity. Tenor, Bass (professional singer not over 25), musically talented, nice-sounding voices, for unique ensemble. Kindly give days and times when available [for rehearsals, etc.]” Out of that two-line ad, came one of the most celebrated music acts of the 20th century: the Comedian Harmonists. The internationally renowned vocal group made over 200 recordings, performed in over 150 concerts around the world and appeared in numerous films. They played the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Coliseum and Radio City Music Hall. And yet, for most, the name “Comedian Harmonists” doesn’t ring a bell. How could that be? Well, the Comedian Harmonists rose to fame in the late 1920s and early 1930s in Germany — and half of its members were Jewish. Because of this, the Nazi regime designated the work of the Comedian Harmonists “degenerate art” and much of it was destroyed. Lost to history. But…not all of it. The little that there was inspired writer Bruce Sussman to dig into the story of the Comedian Harmonists and, with his artistic partner Barry Manilow, create a musical uncovering their music, artistry and stories for the world to know and remember. “Harmony” officially opened on Broadway November 13, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater . And yet, there is only so much history one can fit into a Broadway musical. As Bruce said… “I just needed to simplify, pair it down.” “There were so many things that I could have done, but I had to make choices. As Sondheim famously wrote, the choice may be wrong, but the choosing is right.” Harmony closed on February 4, 2024 but the lost history it resurrected is worth a closer look. In this podcast, “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony”, we’re digging deeper into the true story of the Comedian Harmonists. I’m your host, Ruthie Fierberg, executive editor of Broadway News. Over the course of this series, we’ll dive into the full history of the Comedian Harmonists — it’s more complicated than you think. We’ll learn the details about each of the six famous singers — where they grew up, their musical specialty, their personal lives and what happened after their time with the group. Plus, you’ll hear from creatives and cast members about using this history to create “Harmony” onstage. Join us. There’s a lot to uncover. Host: Ruthie Fierberg Editor: Daniel Pineiro Producers: Harmony A New Musical, Broadway News

“Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony” is a podcast produced by Harmony: A New Musical and Broadway News. Songs In This Episode: “Stars In The Night” from Harmony: A New Musical "In This World" from Harmony: A New Musical Guests In This Episode (in order of appearance): Blake Roman, "Chopin" in Harmony Jan Grübler, Historian Bruce Sussman, Co-Writer of Harmony Beryn Hammil, Ursula's daughter from second marriage Mentioned In This Episode: "Ich hab' für dich 'nen Blumentopf bestellt" "My Little Green Cactus" ⁠Watch the Comedian Harmonists perform together⁠ Learn More About The Comedian Harmonists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thecomedianharmonists.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn More About Harmony A New Musical: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.harmonyanewmusical.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ In 1927, a young man in Germany placed an ad in the local paper: “Attention. Rare opportunity. Tenor, Bass (professional singer not over 25), musically talented, nice-sounding voices, for unique ensemble. Kindly give days and times when available [for rehearsals, etc.]” Out of that two-line ad, came one of the most celebrated music acts of the 20th century: the Comedian Harmonists. The internationally renowned vocal group made over 200 recordings, performed in over 150 concerts around the world and appeared in numerous films. They played the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Coliseum and Radio City Music Hall. And yet, for most, the name “Comedian Harmonists” doesn’t ring a bell. How could that be? Well, the Comedian Harmonists rose to fame in the late 1920s and early 1930s in Germany — and half of its members were Jewish. Because of this, the Nazi regime designated the work of the Comedian Harmonists “degenerate art” and much of it was destroyed. Lost to history. But…not all of it. The little that there was inspired writer Bruce Sussman to dig into the story of the Comedian Harmonists and, with his artistic partner Barry Manilow, create a musical uncovering their music, artistry and stories for the world to know and remember. “Harmony” officially opened on Broadway November 13, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater . And yet, there is only so much history one can fit into a Broadway musical. As Bruce said… “I just needed to simplify, pair it down.” “There were so many things that I could have done, but I had to make choices. As Sondheim famously wrote, the choice may be wrong, but the choosing is right.” Harmony closed on February 4, 2024 but the lost history it resurrected is worth a closer look. In this podcast, “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony”, we’re digging deeper into the true story of the Comedian Harmonists. I’m your host, Ruthie Fierberg, executive editor of Broadway News. Over the course of this series, we’ll dive into the full history of the Comedian Harmonists — it’s more complicated than you think. We’ll learn the details about each of the six famous singers — where they grew up, their musical specialty, their personal lives and what happened after their time with the group. Plus, you’ll hear from creatives and cast members about using this history to create “Harmony” onstage. Join us. There’s a lot to uncover. Host: Ruthie Fierberg Editor: Daniel Pineiro Producers: Harmony A New Musical, Broadway News

“Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony” is a podcast produced by Harmony: A New Musical and Broadway News. Songs In This Episode: “Stars In The Night” from Harmony: A New Musical "How Can I Serve You, Madam?" from Harmony: A New Musical Guests In This Episode (in order of appearance): Steven Telsey, "Lesh" in Harmony Jan Grübler, Historian Bruce Sussman, Co-Writer of Harmony Mentioned In This Episode: Watch Ari Leschnikoff sing "Ich liebe die frauen" Listen to Ari Leschnikoff sing "O Sole Mio" Watch the Comedian Harmonists perform together Learn More About The Comedian Harmonists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thecomedianharmonists.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn More About Harmony A New Musical: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.harmonyanewmusical.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ In 1927, a young man in Germany placed an ad in the local paper: “Attention. Rare opportunity. Tenor, Bass (professional singer not over 25), musically talented, nice-sounding voices, for unique ensemble. Kindly give days and times when available [for rehearsals, etc.]” Out of that two-line ad, came one of the most celebrated music acts of the 20th century: the Comedian Harmonists. The internationally renowned vocal group made over 200 recordings, performed in over 150 concerts around the world and appeared in numerous films. They played the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Coliseum and Radio City Music Hall. And yet, for most, the name “Comedian Harmonists” doesn’t ring a bell. How could that be? Well, the Comedian Harmonists rose to fame in the late 1920s and early 1930s in Germany — and half of its members were Jewish. Because of this, the Nazi regime designated the work of the Comedian Harmonists “degenerate art” and much of it was destroyed. Lost to history. But…not all of it. The little that there was inspired writer Bruce Sussman to dig into the story of the Comedian Harmonists and, with his artistic partner Barry Manilow, create a musical uncovering their music, artistry and stories for the world to know and remember. “Harmony” officially opened on Broadway November 13, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater . And yet, there is only so much history one can fit into a Broadway musical. As Bruce said… “I just needed to simplify, pair it down.” “There were so many things that I could have done, but I had to make choices. As Sondheim famously wrote, the choice may be wrong, but the choosing is right.” Harmony closed on February 4, 2024 but the lost history it resurrected is worth a closer look. In this podcast, “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony”, we’re digging deeper into the true story of the Comedian Harmonists. I’m your host, Ruthie Fierberg, executive editor of Broadway News. Over the course of this series, we’ll dive into the full history of the Comedian Harmonists — it’s more complicated than you think. We’ll learn the details about each of the six famous singers — where they grew up, their musical specialty, their personal lives and what happened after their time with the group. Plus, you’ll hear from creatives and cast members about using this history to create “Harmony” onstage. Join us. There’s a lot to uncover. Host: Ruthie Fierberg Editor: Daniel Pineiro Producers: Harmony A New Musical, Broadway News

“Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony” is a podcast produced by Harmony: A New Musical and Broadway News. Songs In This Episode: “Stars In The Night” from Harmony: A New Musical "Hungarian Rhapsody #20" from Harmony: A New Musical "Home" from Harmony: A New Musical Guests In This Episode (in order of appearance): Bruce Sussman, Harmony co-writer Jan Grübler, Historian Sean Bell, "Bobby" in Harmony Learn More About The Comedian Harmonists: ⁠⁠⁠www.thecomedianharmonists.com⁠⁠⁠ Learn More About Harmony A New Musical: ⁠⁠⁠www.harmonyanewmusical.com⁠⁠⁠ In 1927, a young man in Germany placed an ad in the local paper: “Attention. Rare opportunity. Tenor, Bass (professional singer not over 25), musically talented, nice-sounding voices, for unique ensemble. Kindly give days and times when available [for rehearsals, etc.]” Out of that two-line ad, came one of the most celebrated music acts of the 20th century: the Comedian Harmonists. The internationally renowned vocal group made over 200 recordings, performed in over 150 concerts around the world and appeared in numerous films. They played the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Coliseum and Radio City Music Hall. And yet, for most, the name “Comedian Harmonists” doesn’t ring a bell. How could that be? Well, the Comedian Harmonists rose to fame in the late 1920s and early 1930s in Germany — and half of its members were Jewish. Because of this, the Nazi regime designated the work of the Comedian Harmonists “degenerate art” and much of it was destroyed. Lost to history. But…not all of it. The little that there was inspired writer Bruce Sussman to dig into the story of the Comedian Harmonists and, with his artistic partner Barry Manilow, create a musical uncovering their music, artistry and stories for the world to know and remember. “Harmony” officially opened on Broadway November 13, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater . And yet, there is only so much history one can fit into a Broadway musical. As Bruce said… “I just needed to simplify, pair it down.” “There were so many things that I could have done, but I had to make choices. As Sondheim famously wrote, the choice may be wrong, but the choosing is right.” Harmony closed on February 4, 2024 but the lost history it resurrected is worth a closer look. In this podcast, “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony”, we’re digging deeper into the true story of the Comedian Harmonists. I’m your host, Ruthie Fierberg, executive editor of Broadway News. Over the course of this series, we’ll dive into the full history of the Comedian Harmonists — it’s more complicated than you think. We’ll learn the details about each of the six famous singers — where they grew up, their musical specialty, their personal lives and what happened after their time with the group. Plus, you’ll hear from creatives and cast members about using this history to create “Harmony” onstage. Join us. There’s a lot to uncover. Host: Ruthie Fierberg Editor: Daniel Pineiro Producers: Harmony A New Musical, Broadway News

“Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony” is a podcast produced by Harmony: A New Musical and Broadway News. Songs In This Episode: “Stars In The Night” from Harmony: A New Musical "The Wedding" from Harmony: A New Musical "Where You Go" from Harmony: A New Musical "Every Single Day" from Harmony: A New Musical Guests In This Episode (in order of appearance): Danny Kornfeld, “Young Rabbi” in Harmony Jan Grübler, Historian Chip Zien, "Rabbi" in Harmony Bruce Sussman, Harmony co-writer Learn More About The Comedian Harmonists: ⁠⁠www.thecomedianharmonists.com⁠⁠ Learn More About Harmony A New Musical: ⁠⁠www.harmonyanewmusical.com⁠⁠ In 1927, a young man in Germany placed an ad in the local paper: “Attention. Rare opportunity. Tenor, Bass (professional singer not over 25), musically talented, nice-sounding voices, for unique ensemble. Kindly give days and times when available [for rehearsals, etc.]” Out of that two-line ad, came one of the most celebrated music acts of the 20th century: the Comedian Harmonists. The internationally renowned vocal group made over 200 recordings, performed in over 150 concerts around the world and appeared in numerous films. They played the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Coliseum and Radio City Music Hall. And yet, for most, the name “Comedian Harmonists” doesn’t ring a bell. How could that be? Well, the Comedian Harmonists rose to fame in the late 1920s and early 1930s in Germany — and half of its members were Jewish. Because of this, the Nazi regime designated the work of the Comedian Harmonists “degenerate art” and much of it was destroyed. Lost to history. But…not all of it. The little that there was inspired writer Bruce Sussman to dig into the story of the Comedian Harmonists and, with his artistic partner Barry Manilow, create a musical uncovering their music, artistry and stories for the world to know and remember. “Harmony” officially opened on Broadway November 13, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater . And yet, there is only so much history one can fit into a Broadway musical. As Bruce said… “I just needed to simplify, pair it down.” “There were so many things that I could have done, but I had to make choices. As Sondheim famously wrote, the choice may be wrong, but the choosing is right.” Harmony closed on February 4, 2024 but the lost history it resurrected is worth a closer look. In this podcast, “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony”, we’re digging deeper into the true story of the Comedian Harmonists. I’m your host, Ruthie Fierberg, executive editor of Broadway News. Over the course of this series, we’ll dive into the full history of the Comedian Harmonists — it’s more complicated than you think. We’ll learn the details about each of the six famous singers — where they grew up, their musical specialty, their personal lives and what happened after their time with the group. Plus, you’ll hear from creatives and cast members about using this history to create “Harmony” onstage. Join us. There’s a lot to uncover. Host: Ruthie Fierberg Editor: Daniel Pineiro Producers: Harmony A New Musical, Broadway News

A previous version of this episode misstated the parentage of Erich's wife, Fernande Holzamer. Fernande's father was a German tailor, her mother was a French homemaker. This has been corrected in the episode, as well. “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony” is a podcast produced by Harmony: A New Musical and Broadway News. Songs In This Episode: “Stars In The Night” from Harmony: A New Musical “Harmony” from Harmony: A New Musical "Your Son Is Becoming a Singer" from Harmony: A New Musical Guests In This Episode (in order of appearance): Eric Peters, “Erich” in Harmony Jan Grübler, Historian Marc Alexander, Erich Collin's grandson Deborah Tint, Erich Collin's granddaughter Learn More About The Comedian Harmonists: ⁠www.thecomedianharmonists.com⁠ Learn More About Harmony A New Musical: ⁠www.harmonyanewmusical.com⁠ In 1927, a young man in Germany placed an ad in the local paper: “Attention. Rare opportunity. Tenor, Bass (professional singer not over 25), musically talented, nice-sounding voices, for unique ensemble. Kindly give days and times when available [for rehearsals, etc.]” Out of that two-line ad, came one of the most celebrated music acts of the 20th century: the Comedian Harmonists. The internationally renowned vocal group made over 200 recordings, performed in over 150 concerts around the world and appeared in numerous films. They played the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Coliseum and Radio City Music Hall. And yet, for most, the name “Comedian Harmonists” doesn’t ring a bell. How could that be? Well, the Comedian Harmonists rose to fame in the late 1920s and early 1930s in Germany — and half of its members were Jewish. Because of this, the Nazi regime designated the work of the Comedian Harmonists “degenerate art” and much of it was destroyed. Lost to history. But…not all of it. The little that there was inspired writer Bruce Sussman to dig into the story of the Comedian Harmonists and, with his artistic partner Barry Manilow, create a musical uncovering their music, artistry and stories for the world to know and remember. “Harmony” officially opened on Broadway November 13, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater . And yet, there is only so much history one can fit into a Broadway musical. As Bruce said… “I just needed to simplify, pair it down.” “There were so many things that I could have done, but I had to make choices. As Sondheim famously wrote, the choice may be wrong, but the choosing is right.” Harmony closed on February 4, 2024 but the lost history it resurrected is worth a closer look. In this podcast, “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony”, we’re digging deeper into the true story of the Comedian Harmonists. I’m your host, Ruthie Fierberg, executive editor of Broadway News. Over the course of this series, we’ll dive into the full history of the Comedian Harmonists — it’s more complicated than you think. We’ll learn the details about each of the six famous singers — where they grew up, their musical specialty, their personal lives and what happened after their time with the group. Plus, you’ll hear from creatives and cast members about using this history to create “Harmony” onstage. Join us. There’s a lot to uncover. Host: Ruthie Fierberg Editor: Daniel Pineiro Producers: Harmony A New Musical, Broadway News

“Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony” is a podcast produced by Harmony: A New Musical and Broadway News. Songs In This Episode: "Stars In The Night" from Harmony: A New Musical "How Can I Serve You Madame " from Harmony: A New Musical Guests In This Episode (in order of appearance): Zal Owen, "Harry" in Harmony Jan Grübler, Historian Bruce Sussman, Harmony Book/Lyrics Michael Salzbank, living relative of Harry Frommermann Check out these books: Kantoren, Künstler, Kontinente - Jüdische Schicksale -: Die Familie von Harry Frommermann, Gründer der „Comedian Harmonists by Jan Grübler The Comedian Harmonists: The Last Great Jewish Performers in Nazi Germany by Douglas E. Friedman Learn More About The Comedian Harmonists: www.thecomedianharmonists.com Learn More About Harmony A New Musical: www.harmonyanewmusical.com In 1927, a young man in Germany placed an ad in the local paper: “Attention. Rare opportunity. Tenor, Bass (professional singer not over 25), musically talented, nice-sounding voices, for unique ensemble. Kindly give days and times when available [for rehearsals, etc.]” Out of that two-line ad, came one of the most celebrated music acts of the 20th century: the Comedian Harmonists. The internationally renowned vocal group made over 200 recordings, performed in over 150 concerts around the world and appeared in numerous films. They played the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Coliseum and Radio City Music Hall. And yet, for most, the name “Comedian Harmonists” doesn’t ring a bell. How could that be? Well, the Comedian Harmonists rose to fame in the late 1920s and early 1930s in Germany — and half of its members were Jewish. Because of this, the Nazi regime designated the work of the Comedian Harmonists “degenerate art” and much of it was destroyed. Lost to history. But…not all of it. The little that there was inspired writer Bruce Sussman to dig into the story of the Comedian Harmonists and, with his artistic partner Barry Manilow, create a musical uncovering their music, artistry and stories for the world to know and remember. “Harmony” officially opened on Broadway November 13, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater . And yet, there is only so much history one can fit into a Broadway musical. As Bruce said… “I just needed to simplify, pair it down.” “There were so many things that I could have done, but I had to make choices. As Sondheim famously wrote, the choice may be wrong, but the choosing is right.” Harmony closed on February 4, 2024 but the lost history it resurrected is worth a closer look. In this podcast, “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony”, we’re digging deeper into the true story of the Comedian Harmonists. I’m your host, Ruthie Fierberg, executive editor of Broadway News. Over the course of this series, we’ll dive into the full history of the Comedian Harmonists — it’s more complicated than you think. We’ll learn the details about each of the six famous singers — where they grew up, their musical specialty, their personal lives and what happened after their time with the group. Plus, you’ll hear from creatives and cast members about using this history to create “Harmony” onstage. Join us. There’s a lot to uncover. Host: Ruthie Fierberg Editor: Daniel Pineiro Producers: Harmony A New Musical, Broadway News

“Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony” is a podcast produced by Harmony: A New Musical and Broadway News. Songs In This Episode: "Stars In The Night" from Harmony: A New Musical "Hungarian Rhapsody #20" from Harmony: A New Musical Guests In This Episode (in order of appearance): Zal Owen, "Harry" in Harmony Danny Kornfeld, "Young Rabbi" in Harmony Sean Bell, "Bobby" in Harmony Eric Peters, "Erich" in Harmony Black Roman, "Chopin" in Harmony Bruce Sussman, Harmony Writer Jan Grübler, Historian Learn More About The Comedian Harmonists: www.thecomedianharmonists.com Learn More About Harmony A New Musical: www.harmonyanewmusical.com In 1927, a young man in Germany placed an ad in the local paper: “Attention. Rare opportunity. Tenor, Bass (professional singer not over 25), musically talented, nice-sounding voices, for unique ensemble. Kindly give days and times when available [for rehearsals, etc.]” Out of that two-line ad, came one of the most celebrated music acts of the 20th century: the Comedian Harmonists. The internationally renowned vocal group made over 200 recordings, performed in over 150 concerts around the world and appeared in numerous films. They played the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Coliseum and Radio City Music Hall. And yet, for most, the name “Comedian Harmonists” doesn’t ring a bell. How could that be? Well, the Comedian Harmonists rose to fame in the late 1920s and early 1930s in Germany — and half of its members were Jewish. Because of this, the Nazi regime designated the work of the Comedian Harmonists “degenerate art” and much of it was destroyed. Lost to history. But…not all of it. The little that there was inspired writer Bruce Sussman to dig into the story of the Comedian Harmonists and, with his artistic partner Barry Manilow, create a musical uncovering their music, artistry and stories for the world to know and remember. “Harmony” officially opened on Broadway November 13, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater . And yet, there is only so much history one can fit into a Broadway musical. As Bruce said… “I just needed to simplify, pair it down.” “There were so many things that I could have done, but I had to make choices. As Sondheim famously wrote, the choice may be wrong, but the choosing is right.” Harmony closed on February 4, 2024 but the lost history it resurrected is worth a closer look. In this podcast, “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony”, we’re digging deeper into the true story of the Comedian Harmonists. I’m your host, Ruthie Fierberg, executive editor of Broadway News. Over the course of this series, we’ll dive into the full history of the Comedian Harmonists — it’s more complicated than you think. We’ll learn the details about each of the six famous singers — where they grew up, their musical specialty, their personal lives and what happened after their time with the group. Plus, you’ll hear from creatives and cast members about using this history to create “Harmony” onstage. Join us. There’s a lot to uncover. Host: Ruthie Fierberg Editor: Daniel Pineiro Producers: Harmony A New Musical, Broadway News

"Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway's Harmony" is a podcast produced by Harmony: A New Musical and Broadway News. Learn More About The Comedian Harmonists: www.thecomedianharmonists.com Learn More About Harmony A New Musical: www.harmonyanewmusical.com In 1927, a young man in Germany placed an ad in the local paper: “Attention. Rare opportunity. Tenor, Bass (professional singer not over 25), musically talented, nice-sounding voices, for unique ensemble. Kindly give days and times when available [for rehearsals, etc.]” Out of that two-line ad, came one of the most celebrated music acts of the 20th century: the Comedian Harmonists. The internationally renowned vocal group made over 200 recordings, performed in over 150 concerts around the world and appeared in numerous films. They played the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Coliseum and Radio City Music Hall. And yet, for most, the name “Comedian Harmonists” doesn’t ring a bell. How could that be? Well, the Comedian Harmonists rose to fame in the late 1920s and early 1930s in Germany — and half of its members were Jewish. Because of this, the Nazi regime designated the work of the Comedian Harmonists “degenerate art” and much of it was destroyed. Lost to history.  But…not all of it. The little that there was inspired writer Bruce Sussman to dig into the story of the Comedian Harmonists and, with his artistic partner Barry Manilow, create a musical uncovering their music, artistry and stories for the world to know and remember. “Harmony” officially opened on Broadway November 13, 2023 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater . And yet, there is only so much history one can fit into a Broadway musical. As Bruce said... "I just needed to simplify, pair it down.” “There were so many things that I could have done, but I had to make choices. As Sondheim famously wrote, the choice may be wrong, but the choosing is right.” Harmony closed on February 4, 2024 but the lost history it resurrected is worth a closer look. In this podcast, “Who Were The Comedian Harmonists? The True Story Behind Broadway’s Harmony”, we’re digging deeper into the true story of the Comedian Harmonists. I’m your host, Ruthie Fierberg, executive editor of Broadway News. Over the course of this series, we’ll dive into the full history of the Comedian Harmonists — it’s more complicated than you think. We’ll learn the details about each of the six famous singers — where they grew up, their musical specialty, their personal lives and what happened after their time with the group. Plus, you’ll hear from creatives and cast members about using this history to create “Harmony” onstage.  Join us. There’s a lot to uncover.  Host: Ruthie Fierberg Editor: Mary Elizabeth Dina Producers: Harmony A New Musical, Broadway News