Tag Archives: Dr. Sue

DrSue Sings Sondheim parody Send Me a Brownie

DrSue Sings Sondheim parody Send Me a Brownie

DrSue Sings Sondheim parody Send Me a Brownie

DrSue Don't Tell Mama
DrSue Sings Sondheim parody Send Me a Brownie

DrSue Sings Sondheim parody Send Me a Brownie

I’m Susan Horowitz a.k.a. DrSue, and I’m a great admirer of Stephen Sondheim’s work. When I was invited to perform “Send in the Clowns” in a Talent Showcase, I gladly accepted. However, we are currently in a pandemic, and group singing is known to be a high-risk activity. When the producer assigned a group song, I decided to cancel my live participation.

I still love Sondheim’s songs, so I’d like like to share my research, my thoughts, and my funny parody “Send Me a Brownie” (Scroll down for song video and lyrics.)

“Send in the Clowns” by Stephen Sondheim

“Send in the Clowns” is beautiful and touching. The song offers the performer and audience a poignant, dramatic moment of irony, rueful sadness, dignity, and at last, hope.

Popularity of “Send in the Clowns” by Stephen Sondheim

“Send in the Clowns” is one of the few songs from his theatre works that also achieved popular acclaim as an independent song. Some of the famous singers who recorded their own versions include: Frank Sinatra, Bernadette Peters, Judy Collins, Barbra Streisand, Bobby Short, and Sarah Vaughan. It also has become a beloved standard in concerts, piano bars (especially those that feature show tunes), and cabaret shows.

What is the secret of the success of “Send In the Clowns”? There are a few reasons: the sentiment (the heartbreaking disappointment of losing romantic love) is universal. The singer is relatable and appealing – in and out of the the story of A Little Night Music.

The language takes us into the elegant world of educated nineteenth century society. We may not use phrases like “Isn’t it rich?” but we understand them. We also enjoy the theatrical references, which are natural to the character, who is an actress. Sondheim’s rhymes are perfect (as always) but don’t distract with cleverness.

On a practical level, “Send In the Clowns” (compared to other Sondheim songs), is relatively easy to sing and can be performed by many popular singers. The melody has a limited vocal range, and it can stay well within the singer’s comfortable chest voice.

The words are easy to pronounce, without the tongue-twisting, breathless patter of some other Sondheim songs, for example, “I’m Not Getting Married Today” from Sondheim’s current Broadway show Company. http://www.companymusical.com

Sondheim composed “Send In the Clowns” for the character “Desiree Armfeldt” in A Little Night Music. The role was originated by actress-singer Glynis Johns, who had a limited vocal range but was an excellent actress. It can be performed by many singers who can act a song without Broadway musical training or vocal chops.

Lovers of American Popular Music can visit and/or join American Popular Song Society https://www.apssinc.org/

“Send in the Clowns” musical A Little Night Music by Stephen Sondheim

The lyric for “Send In the Clowns” is in fact, a tremendous platform for an acting driven song performance. The lyric (which you can scroll down to read) is sung by the character “Desiree Armfeldt”. Desiree is a touring actress, who had previously rejected a marriage proposal from the lawyer Fredrik. But she has now returned to his hometown and realizes that she wants to commit to their future together. Fredrik, however, is newly married to a much younger bride, who dotes on him (though she refuses to have sex with him).

After Desiree and Fredrik consummate their own reunion in her bed, Fredrik tells Desiree that he is infatuated with his childlike wife and unavailable. Desiree realizes that her dream of commitment with Fredrik is over. She looks at her own theatrical career and love life with rueful irony as she struggles to let him go and maintain her own dignity.

The phrase “Send in the Clowns” refers to the moment in a play where everything is falling apart and somebody makes jokes to divert the audiences. The “clowns” are also the two former lovers, especially Desiree, who feels like a fool.

Clowns are one aspect of comedy, another is parody. Hope you enjoy my parody of “Send in the Clowns” I call it: “Send Me a Brownie” (Scroll Down for Parody and Original Lyric.)

DrSue Sings Sondheim parody Send Me a Brownie

DrSue Sings Sondheim parody Send Me a Brownie

Send Me A Brownie (parody lyric by Susan Horowitz/DrSue)
Isn't it rich? 
Chocolate and square
Soon as the light goes on
You will be there 
Send Me A Brownie

Brownies are bliss
Some won't approve 
I'll put on pound after pound
Till I can't move
I'm getting round
Send Me A Brownie

Romantic love, knocking on doors
I need what's in refrigerators
Don't need no make-up not even a smidge
Brownies are here
Inside my fridge

No ifs ands or buts
Chocolate and nuts
Chewy and gooey with milk 
I don't need beer
Don't need to spread 
Cream cheese on bread
Don't need a schmear 

Isn't it rich? 
Chocolate and square
So deep inside
My fridgidair
Who needs a clown? 
I hate a clown
Send Me A Brownie

Parody Lyric by Susan Horowitz/Dr. Sue

Switch the Musical by Susan Horowitz/DrSue Singer-Songwriter

“Queens of Comedy” by Susan Horowitz (DrSue)

As you can see, I love to perform and write about comedy! Here’s a link to my book “Queens of Comedy” based on my interviews with legendary female comedians!

In my previous appearance Seth Bisen-Hersh Talent Showcase at Don’t Tell Mama, I sang songs from my original show Switch the Musical. Hope you enjoy!

DrSue Don't Tell Mama

Here’s the video of my singing “Switch the Musical” songs!

DrSue /Susan Horowitz Singer-Songwriter “Switch the Musical” at Don’t Tell Mama

Dr. Sue/ DrSue Sings “Switch the Musical” www.SwitchtheMusical.com

Contact DrSue /Susan Horowitz

Contact DrSue/Susan Horowitz through my Social Media Upper Right of Website, or Email drsue at drsue dot com.

“Send in the Clowns” Lyric by Stephen Sondheim

"Send In the Clowns" 

Isn't it rich? 
Are we a pair? 
Me here at last on the ground
You in mid-air.
Where are the clowns?

Isn't it bliss? 
Don't you approve?
One who keeps tearing around
One who can't move 
Where are the clowns? 
Send in the clowns. 

Just when I stopped opening doors
Finally knowing the one that I wanted was yours
Making my entrance at last with my usual flair
Sure of my lines, no one is there.

Don't you love farce? 
My fault I fear
I thought that you'd want what I want
Sorry, my dear 
And where are the clowns? 
Send in the clowns
Don't bother, they're here

Isn't it rich? Isn't it queer
Losing my timing this late in my career
And where are the clowns? 
There ought to be clowns
Well, maybe next year

Disclaimer: 
"Send in the Clowns" Words and Music by Stephen Sondheim is quoted for educational purposes only.  

Dr. Sue Logo


Susan (“Dr. Sue”) Horowitz, Ph.D.
Entertaining Motivational Speaker-Author-Educator-Singer/Songwriter.

Book: “Queens of Comedy”
(Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, Joan Rivers, Phyllis Diller, and more!)
smashwords.com/books/view/219367

“SWitch!” Original Play & Musical www.switchthemusical.com

Dr. Sue YouTube Channel
youtube.com/user/drsuecomedian/videos

DrSue New Word Lute

DrSue New Word Lute

DrSue New Word Lute Music, Shakespeare in the Park New York City. Dr. Sue Positive Entertainment

DrSue New Word Lute. Dr. Sue (Singer/Songwriter) Sings with Troubador/Lutenist/Story Teller Garald Farnham @ Shakespeare in the Park, New York City! Farnham, who is the Musician/Music Director of Ensemble “Good Pennyworths” presents songs that are touching, humorous, and family friendly! Scroll down for 1Minute DrSue New Word Music Video!

DrSue New Word “Lute”

Dr. Sue and Troubador Farnham invite you to a musical journey back to the time of William Shakespeare, with songs from Shakespeare’s plays and poetry and the flowering of the English Renaissance. Join us in an enchanted forest (Central Park, NYC). Before there were rock stars and electric guitars, there were minstrels and lutes! Our DrSue New Word is… “Lute”!

DrSue New Word Celebrates Learning, Arts, Science, Diversity, Vocabulary, Travel and Fun!

To learn more about DrSue New Word MultiMedia Entertaining Educational Programs (1 Minute Videos and Related Merchandise) Please scroll down.

Enjoy DrSue New Word “Lute” – One Minute Song Video.

DrSue New Word One Minute Videos (hosted by Dr. Sue) include a catchy jingle, happy logo, videos, photos, original songs – Perfect for All Media!

Dr. Sue Logo


Susan (“Dr. Sue”) Horowitz, Ph.D.
Entertaining Motivational Speaker-Author-Educator-Singer/Songwriter.

Book: “Queens of Comedy”
(Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, Joan Rivers, Phyllis Diller, and more!)
smashwords.com/books/view/219367

“SWitch!” Original Play & Musical www.switchthemusical.com

Dr. Sue YouTube Channel
youtube.com/user/drsuecomedian/videos

Dr. Sue New Word Light

DrSue New Word Light

DrSue New Word “Light” Dr. Sue, Singer-Songwriter Educator, blends Art, Science, Song & Performance in One Minute Video! Dr. Sue Positive Entertainment

Dr. Sue, Singer-Songwriter/Educator, combines Art, Science & Song in One-Minute Videos! DrSue New Word videos blend music, performing arts and dramatic photography/videography (by Daniel Severino) ! Enjoy MultiMedia Exhibit “Creatures of Light” @American Museum of Natural History, NYC. Dr. Sue invites you to experience the magic of “bioluminescence”! Insects, like fireflies emit their own light -as shown in this gigantic model of a firefly! Enjoy Dr. Sue’s exciting video (with speaking, music, dance, drama and dance) to see mushrooms glow with a greenish light and jellyfish wriggle in purplish dance beneath the sea!

DrSue New Word “Light” Video Blends Science and Art!

Please Like, Comment, Subscribe and Follow DrSue New Word 1 Minute Videos on YouTube and Social Media

DrSue YouTube Channel: www.YouTube.com/drsuecomedian

Dr. Sue & Teddly New Word Mug & More!
Dr. Sue & Teddly New Word Logo for Mug Notebook Stickers Games & More!

DrSue New Word One Minute Videos (hosted by Dr. Sue) include a catchy jingle, happy logo, videos, photos, original songs – Perfect for All Media!

Dr. Sue Celebrates Learning, Diversity, Travel, Friends, Art, Science & Fun!

Contact Form on DrSue.com Website

Please Like, Comment, Subscribe and Follow DrSue New Word 1 Minute Videos on YouTube and Social Media

DrSue YouTube Channel: www.YouTube.com/drsuecomedian

Dr. Sue Logo


Susan (“Dr. Sue”) Horowitz, Ph.D.
Entertaining Motivational Speaker-Author-Educator-Singer/Songwriter.

Book: “Queens of Comedy”
(Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, Joan Rivers, Phyllis Diller, and more!)
smashwords.com/books/view/219367

“SWitch!” Original Play & Musical www.switchthemusical.com

Dr. Sue YouTube Channel
youtube.com/user/drsuecomedian/videos

Dr. Sue & Tashawn X

DrSue New Word Chance Basketball Positive Entertainment

DrSue New Word “Chance” Dr. Sue, Singer-Songwriter/Educator, and Tashawn X, Teen Basketball Star, Motivate You! One Minute Inspirational Videos! Positive Entertainment

Dr. Sue, Singer-Songwriter, Inspiring Educator, and Tashawn X, Teen Basketball Star/Leader Motivate You to Take a Chance! Tashawn’s basketball symbolizes opportunities in life! Will Tashawn’s basketball fly through the air and score a far 3-point shot? Will you dare to take a chance and go for your dream? Unrehearsed, authentic video is shot @Borough of Manhattan Community College/City University of New York (BMCC/CUNY) by Dr. Sue, Ph.D. Professor, Singer-Songwriter, Host-Interviewer of DrSue New Word Inspiring One-Minute Videos – for All Media!

DrSue New Word Video Dr. Sue Host and Tashawn X, Teen Basketball Star, Inspire You to Take a Chance and Live Your Dream!

Please Like, Comment, Subscribe and Follow DrSue New Word 1 Minute Videos on YouTube and Social Media

DrSue YouTube Channel: www.YouTube.com/drsuecomedian

Dr. Sue & Teddly New Word Mug & More!
Dr. Sue & Teddly New Word Logo for Mug, Notebook, Stickers, Games, Videos & More!

DrSue New Word One Minute Videos (hosted by Dr. Sue) include a catchy jingle, happy logo, videos, photos, original songs – Perfect for All Media!

Dr Sue New Word Videos: Learning, Diversity, Travel, Friends, Inspiration & Fun!

Contact Form on DrSue.com Website

Dr. Sue Logo


Susan (“Dr. Sue”) Horowitz, Ph.D.
Entertaining Motivational Speaker-Author-Educator-Singer/Songwriter.

Book: “Queens of Comedy”
(Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, Joan Rivers, Phyllis Diller, and more!)
smashwords.com/books/view/219367

“SWitch!” Original Play & Musical www.switchthemusical.com

Dr. Sue YouTube Channel
youtube.com/user/drsuecomedian/videos

Dr. Sue Teddly Bear American Museum of Natural History (AMNH)

Dr. Sue Virtual Tour American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) Positive Entertainment

Dr. Sue Virtual Tour American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) Positive Entertainment

Dr. Sue and her Teddly Bear Puppet invite you to a Virtual Tour of the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) in New York City! https://www.amnh.org/

Enjoy a Special Exhibit “The Nature of Color” – a scientific, artistic, cultural view of hue – and meet bears in New York City!

Dr. Sue & Teddly Virtual Tour American Museum of Natual History (AMNH)
Dr. Sue & Teddly Bear on Virtual Tour of American Museum of Natural History (AMNH)

Dr. Sue & Teddly – Entertaining Virtual Tour American Museum of Natural History

What are colors? Which ones can we see? Can some animals see what we cannot? Are there “colors” (electromagnetic waves) that we can’t see, but which powerfully affect our lives?

How do we “see” color – how does a “colored” object, light, or reflection send a message to our eyes and brain? Do colors create feelings, and do colors mean different things in different cultures?

Why do some animals have different colors at different times? How can color make an animal a mating magnet or a “master of disguise”?

People come in different colors too, but how different are we – under the skin?

If you’re curious about color you’ll love this special exhibit “The Nature of Color” at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). There’s plenty more to see at AMNH. Look out for skeletons, fossils….and bears!

Your Video Host is Dr. Sue (Susan Horowitz, Ph.D.) Entertaining Educator – plus her best friend Teddly Bear – a Puppet with Personality!

Enjoy Dr. Sue’s original song “Friends Are Soul Food” (Music on Request).

Dr. Sue is Available for Live and Online Programs.
Contact Form on Website, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susan.horowitz1

Museums Are Soul Food 

Museums are soul food 
Friends are soul food
Take a tour, and I am sure
We'll share good company

Museums are soul food 
Friends are soul food
We can share the things we love 
With a special friend
Won't you be my friend...

"Museums Are Soul Food" by Susan "Dr. Sue" Horowitz
copyright 2020
"Friends Are Soul Food" is also a complete song with Written Music 
Available on Request from Susan "Dr. Sue" Horowitz
Dr. Sue Logo


Susan (“Dr. Sue”) Horowitz, Ph.D.
Entertaining Motivational Speaker-Author-Educator-Singer/Songwriter.

Book: “Queens of Comedy”
(Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, Joan Rivers, Phyllis Diller, and more!)
smashwords.com/books/view/219367

“SWitch!” Original Play & Musical www.switchthemusical.com

Dr. Sue YouTube Channel
youtube.com/user/drsuecomedian/videos

Dr. Sue Ten Commandments

Dr. Sue Happy Passover, Easter & Spring Positive Entertainment

Dr. Sue Ten Commandments
Dr. Sue Ten Commandments

Happy Passover, Easter, Spring… and whatever you celebrate!

I hope this photograph makes you think of all we have in common:

We all need something to believe in.

We all need just laws that serve the greater good.

We all need sunshine  (above the 10 commandments in the photo)

We all need generosity – open arms and open heart.

We all need to believe in Spring – symbolized by the green color of my dress and the flowers in my shawl.

We all need to feel part of a community.

When we cannot be physically close, when it’s not wise to physically touch, we can still feel close in many ways.

We can talk on the phone, we can connect on social media, we can send emails, and texts.

We can contact someone who would appreciate our reaching out.

We can give, and we can help… we can lift our own spirits – and the spirits of others.

We can forgive, we can give a kind word, a sincere compliment, and tangible gifts of money, food and supplies.

We can appreciate those who give so much more!

And no matter what you believe – we believe in you!

In case you need the gift of song and laughter, here’s my song:

Dr. Sue sings her original song “Matzoh Ball Romance”   

Dr. Sue Logo


Susan (“Dr. Sue”) Horowitz, Ph.D.
Entertaining Motivational Speaker-Author-Educator-Singer/Songwriter.

Book: “Queens of Comedy”
(Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, Joan Rivers, Phyllis Diller, and more!)
smashwords.com/books/view/219367

“SWitch!” Original Play & Musical www.switchthemusical.com

Dr. Sue YouTube Channel
youtube.com/user/drsuecomedian/videos

Dr. Sue We're In This Together

Dr. Sue Sings “We’re In This Together” Positive Entertainment

Dr. Sue sings her original song “We’re In This Together”

I created my song “We’re In This Together”

to share my belief that we are all part of one human family.

I hope my song lifts your spirit and gives you the feeling

that you are not alone, and that we all matter.

If we stand together, share resources,

and act with caring and community responsibility,

we shall overcome the COVID-19 – Coronavirus – pandemic – and future challenges (which will surely come).

We all need to stand together as one human family.

Songs can reach our minds, touch our hearts, and uplift our spirits.

I hope you enjoy my original song “We’re In This Together”  copyright April 2, 2020 Susan Horowitz (Words and Music)

Dr. Sue Sings “We’re In This Together”

Dr. Sue Make a Mask out of a Bra! Funny Positive Entertainment

“Masks probably do provide some protection.” That’s the latest news from The New York Times

NYTimes on Masks and Coronavirus:

“Masks probably do provide some protection. They’re particularly effective at keeping somebody who already has the virus from spreading it to others, and they may also make the mask’s wearer less likely to get sick.

“Coronavirus appears to mostly spread when germ-containing droplets make it into a person’s mouth, nose, or eyes,” Vox’s German Lopez explains. “If you have a physical barrier in front of your mouth and nose, that’s simply less likely to happen.”

Of course we should give first priority for masks to health-care workers. And there may be no masks available.

What can you do?  You can Make Your Own Mask!

It may not be medical grade – but it is surely better than nothing! Tie a Scarf around your Nose and Mouth! (You’ll feel like a Movie Star – The Lone Ranger! ) Or Use a Bra Cup – any size will do! Fasten with hooks and eyes, snaps or elastic – get creative. Or cut up an old shirt or pants leg! (Use your imagination, your scarf, shirt, pants…or bra!)

Fashion Forward  means NewYorkStrong!

You don’t have to live in New York to be NewYorkStrong !

What about USAStrong ? OneWorldStrong? 

 

Susan (“Dr. Sue”) Horowitz, Ph.D.

Book: “Queens of Comedy”
(Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, Joan Rivers,
Phyllis Diller, and more!) www.smashwords.com/books/view/219367

Musical: “SssWitch”: www.ssswitch.net

 www.YouTube.com/drsuecomedian
https://www.youtube.com/feed/my_videos

 

Dr. Sue Plastic Bag Positive Entertainment

Dr. Sue Health Tip Plastic Bags Gloves Positive Entertainment

Dr Sue shares Health Tips to Cope with Coronavirus No gloves? No problem!  Health Tip #1: Wear plastic bags! We all know it’s best to wear plastic gloves when we touch public surfaces. But what do you do when the stores don’t have them? Besides, gloves and masks (which are in short supply) should be reserved for health care providers and people on the front lines. What can you do? Get resourceful! Most of us have plastic bags lying around the house. Slip on the gloves when you go outside – before you touch buttons, door knobs, railings, revolving doors, money, etc. Are plastic bags as effective as surgical gloves? Do they replace social distance? Of course not. But they are certainly better than nothing. When you come home, take off your gloves and… Wash Your Hands! Health Tip #2: Don’t touch your face! Coronavirus (COVID-19) gets in through the mucous membranes. These are mainly located in the eyes, nose, and mouth – near your face. Touching your face is often an unconscious habit, so I put on a scrunchy, and tucked my hair under my cap. The cap reminds me: Don’t Touch Your Face. Health Tip #3: Self-Isolate and Social Distance I stay home most of the time and social distance when I go out. We all need to do this – for ourselves and our community. Stay Healthy – Stay NewYorkStrong !   Dr. Sue Shares Health Tip: Plastic Bags

Susan (“Dr. Sue”) Horowitz, Ph.D.

Book: “Queens of Comedy” (Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, Joan Rivers, Phyllis Diller, and more!) www.smashwords.com/books/view/219367 Musical: “SssWitch”: www.ssswitch.net  www.YouTube.com/drsuecomedian https://www.youtube.com/feed/my_videos
Dr. Sue Tulips Mask Positive Entertainment

Dr. Sue Health Tips COVID-19 Positive Entertainment

Here are Health Tips to Prevent Infection! Don’t touch your face! COVID-19, like most coronaviruses and the flu, enter the body through the mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, and mouth – all of them on the face. I realized that one of the main reasons that I touch my face is to brush away my loose hair that falls on my face. So I fastened my hair with a scrunchy and tucked it under my cap. Wearing the cap also reminds me – don’t touch my face! I’m on my solo walk in the park. I’m keeping social distance – with fresh air, sunshine, flowers,… and a curious squirrel who ran up to my feet. But I walked away. Better rude than sorry 🙂 Touching your face is an unconscious habit, and it’s easy to slip – so wash or sanitize your hands as soon as you get home – do it regularly. Cover your nose and mouth. Health Care Workers need medical-grade masks but a scarf or home-made mask offers some protection Avoid touching paper and public surfaces – that includes cash, receipts, doorknobs, railings, etc. Hydration, multivitamins and particularly zinc are helpful for body’s defense against all viruses. Use as directed. Excess of  any vitamins and minerals not recommended and could actually lower your immune response. Do not take Ibuprofen or Advil – unless truly necessary. According to some sources, these drugs make the virus much worse – with patients winding up on ventilators. This warning about Ibuprofen and Advil is disputed, but we say, why take the risk? Be mindful of early symptoms of COVID-19, which include:
  • Feeling achy or exhausted
  • unusual sniffles
  • low grade temp or flushing
  • alteration of smell or taste.
If symptoms progress to frequent coughing or Shortness of Breath, seek medical care immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential to keep the morbidity and mortality low. Health Advice comes from Medical Doctors with Experience in Infectious Respiratory Disease.  Here’s my Video with Health Tips! 

Susan (“Dr. Sue”) Horowitz, Ph.D.

Book: “Queens of Comedy” (Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, Joan Rivers, Phyllis Diller, and more!) www.smashwords.com/books/view/219367 Musical: “SssWitch”: www.ssswitch.net  www.YouTube.com/drsuecomedian https://www.youtube.com/feed/my_videos