By Bruce Steele
The loss of Disney Legend Angela Lansbury last week was especially difficult for those she worked closely with over the years. Composer and Disney Legend Alan Menken collaborated with Lansbury several times, beginning with the original recording of the songs for the Disney animated classic Beauty and the Beast at RCA Studios in New York City. At that time, Menken’s songwriting partner, Disney Legend Howard Ashman, was visibly weakened by his battle with AIDS, which took his life in early 1991, eight months before the film was released in theaters. When Alan was asked by the Walt Disney Archives if he would like to share his thoughts on Angela, he provided this touching remembrance:
“My most indelible memories of Angela are those reflecting her deep compassion, extraordinary artistry and strength—along with her endearing vulnerability and openness. The first time I met her was when Howard Ashman and I produced her singing ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘Be Our Guest’ at RCA Studios. She arrived, with her husband Peter Shaw, so perfectly prepared that the very first sing-through with orchestra is almost entirely what was used—a moment of such perfection and emotion. And, at the same time, it was crystal clear that Angela tracked Howard’s fragile condition and exuded the most endearing compassion and support imaginable.
“And my last memories are us sharing the stage at Lincoln Center [in 2016] for the 25th anniversary of Beauty and the Beast and at Carnegie Hall for a concert honoring my work. When we rehearsed the title song backstage, Angela had to stop our performance numerous times because of her feeling emotionally overcome. The memories associated with that first, joyful experience in the studio caught up with her; and, not surprisingly, with me as well. Peter’s passing [in 2003] had hit Angela hard. And we both experienced the feeling of loss and appreciation for the brilliance of Howard.
“But, having had that moment, Angela gathered her strength, declared, ‘It will all be fine on the night!,’ ran through our rehearsal perfectly and once again brought her exquisite heart and artistry to live performances that will live forever for those audiences and for me. RIP, dear Angela. You will live forever in our hearts.”
Read D23’s full remembrance of Angela Lansbury here.