Jerry Herman’s (b. 1931) dazzling score, and message of acceptance, has made the musical La Cages Aux Folles popular with audiences since the show’s opening night at New York’s Palace Theatre on August 21, 1983. Sung by the character of Albin, I Am What I Am, is an anthem about embracing your true self. This was the final piece I sang as a finalist on NBC’s America’s Got Talent. Although I had the love and support of the audience, some on the judging panel were less supportive. Singing this piece, and standing up for myself, is what ultimately sent me home. (although the top 25 was nothing to scoff at compared to the 1.5 million auditions in that season…and I received the nickname “Sugar Mouth” by
Jerry Herman’s (b. 1931) dazzling score, and message of acceptance, has made the musical La Cages Aux Folles popular with audiences since the show’s opening night at New York’s Palace Theatre on August 21, 1983. Sung by the character of Albin, I Am What I Am, is an anthem about embracing your true self. This was the final piece I sang as a finalist on NBC’s America’s Got Talent. Although I had the love and support of the audience, some on the judging panel were less supportive. Singing this piece, and standing up for myself, is what ultimately sent me home. (although the top 25 was nothing to scoff at compared to the 1.5 million auditions in that season…and I received the nickname “Sugar Mouth” by