That's Entertainment Cover Image

That's Entertainment: 2-Part Choral Octavo

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That's Entertainment: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Words by Howard Dietz, music by Arthur Schwartz / arr. Alan Billingsley

Item: 00-51603

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Description
Lady Gaga released her cover of this showbiz standard on Harlequin, a companion album to the film Joker: Folie à Deux. Opening with a short spotlight solo and then breaking into a bouncy Broadway 2-beat, this theatrical arrangement is sure to thrill choirs of all ages! This stage-worthy opener, finale, or concert theme song craves choreo, including even a kick-line toward the rousing finish. Don't miss the spectacular orchestration on our pizazzy SoundTrax and SoundPax accompaniment.

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Additional Details
Series: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 16
UPC: 038081591032
SKU: 00-51603

More about this title

About the Composer: Howard Dietz

Howard Dietz (1896-1983) was a lyricist and librettist who shaped the sound of American musical theater across five decades. His collaborations with composer Arthur Schwartz produced some of Broadway's most enduring standards, including "Dancing in the Dark" and "That's Entertainment." Dietz also served as head of publicity for MGM, giving him insider knowledge of Hollywood glamour that infused his theatrical writing with authentic showbiz wit and sophistication.

For music educators, Dietz represents the golden age of American songwriting, when clever lyrics and memorable melodies worked together seamlessly. His work remains a gateway into the Great American Songbook and continues to engage singers of all ages with its theatrical flair and accessible charm.

Why we love this

Alan Billingsley's arrangement captures everything that makes this standard theatrical gold. The 2-beat bounce and spotlight solo setup create natural staging moments without requiring elaborate production, while the rousing finish practically demands movement. This is the kind of piece that reminds choirs why they perform: it's fun to sing, fun to watch, and impossible not to smile through.

What to expect

Stepping into the spotlight with a knowing smile and a song. The energy is bright and propulsive, channeling classic Broadway confidence without pretension. There's a built-in sense of celebration here, as if the choir is sharing insider knowledge about what makes live performance magical.

Who it's for

This piece thrives in choirs with singers in middle school through adult levels who enjoy theatrical material and aren't intimidated by movement. The accessible 2-part voicing makes it ideal for developing choirs, while the arrangement's wit and style keep more experienced singers engaged.

How to get the most out of it

  • Shape the opening solo with clear storytelling; treat it as a character introducing the concept of entertainment rather than just delivering exposition.
  • Anchor the 2-beat rhythm in your section leaders during rehearsal so the bounce feels effortless and unforced when full choir enters.
  • Plan staging around the kick-line moment early in the rehearsal process; this detail is built into the arrangement and should feel organic rather than tacked on.
  • Balance the recorded accompaniment level so the choral voices remain the main event; these pizazzy orchestrations should support, not overpower.

How to use it

Consider this a natural concert opener or finale that sets a celebratory tone. It also works beautifully as a themed concert centerpiece alongside other Great American Songbook selections, or as a spring musical theater showcase moment. The theatrical nature makes it particularly effective as a transition between concert sections or as a way to introduce younger singers to classic Broadway repertoire.

Skills your students will build

  • Broadway rhythmic vocabulary and 2-beat phrasing
  • Lyric clarity and theatrical diction in American English
  • Basic choreography and movement integration with vocal performance
  • Confidence in ensemble blend while maintaining character and personality

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