Welcome to a new Musical Theatre Monday! I had planned to celebrate the 97th birthday of Dame Angela Lansbury here, but she passed away just last week. So instead, we’re paying tribute to the late, great entertainer’s legacy — specifically, one of her most seminal roles: Auntie Mame.

For subscribers who comment below to alert me of their private, non-commercial interest, I’m offering access to a live audio of Angela Lansbury playing Mame at the Los Angeles Civic Light Opera in 1968 — not too long after her run in the Original Broadway production — with Anne Francine as Vera. Here’s a sample — “If He Walked Into My Life.”

And since we’re in the Mame mood, maybe I’ll throw in two other (non-Lansbury) goodies as well. But you’ll have to find out what those are, for this post is all about the divine Angela Lansbury, who conquered Hollywood, Broadway, and even became an iconic TV staple for over a decade. I’ll miss her, but I’m grateful she left behind a massive body of work — in so many different mediums — to enjoy forevermore. And that is just sensational.

Farewell to the great Angela Lansbury!

Come back next month for another musical rarity! And stay tuned tomorrow for The Nanny!