Character guide
Mame Dennis
from Mame
Mame Dennis is the title character and lead of Mame, Jerry Herman's 1966 musical, playing a flamboyant New York socialite who raises her orphaned nephew with unconventional flair.
- Show
- Mame
- Broadway premiere
- 1966
- Role
- Lead
- Music by
- Jerry Herman
Mame Dennis on stage vs screen
Broadway compared with the 1958 film Auntie Mame and the 1974 film Mame
Three stars defined Mame in quick succession. Rosalind Russell played her in the 1958 non-musical film Auntie Mame, repeating her Broadway role from the play and earning an Oscar nomination; Angela Lansbury originated the musical's Mame in 1966 and won a Tony; and Lucille Ball starred in the 1974 film of the musical.
The film was a box office and critical failure, although Ball earned a Golden Globe nomination. Her singing had to be pieced together line by line to stay on pitch. The film also added a new song, Loving You.
Who is Mame Dennis?
Mame is a wealthy, free spirited Manhattan socialite whose life changes when her young nephew Patrick is sent to live with her after his father's death. She raises him according to her own philosophy of living boldly and fully, exposing him to her eccentric social circle even as the two weather the Great Depression and years of shifting fortune together.
Mame's warmth, extravagance, and refusal to be conventional make her one of musical theatre's most beloved star roles, a character defined as much by her devotion to Patrick as by her love of a good party.
Mame's role in Mame
Mame is the title role and lead of the show, appearing in nearly every scene and requiring a performer capable of commanding the stage across decades of the character's life, from glamorous 1920s hostess to Depression era survivor. Her songs, including the title number Mame and the duet Bosom Buddies with her friend Vera Charles, showcase both comic flair and emotional depth.
Angela Lansbury originated the role on Broadway in 1966 and won a Tony Award for the performance, cementing Mame as one of the definitive star vehicles of the era. Lucille Ball later played the role in the 1974 film adaptation.
Mame Dennis: frequently asked questions
What show is Mame Dennis from?
Mame Dennis is the title character of Mame, which opened on Broadway in 1966.
Is Mame Dennis a lead or supporting role?
Mame is the lead role and title character of the show.
Who wrote the music for Mame?
Jerry Herman wrote the music and lyrics for Mame.
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