Broadway legend and distinguished alum returns to CCM

Born and raised in Covington, Kentucky, Reams graduated from UC's College-Conservatory of Music in 1964 and made his Broadway debut a short 18 months later in the original production of Sweet Charity. His career quickly skyrocketed with multiple leading roles on Broadway through the ’60s and ’70s, including Will Parker in Oklahoma!, Duane Fox in Applause, Henry Spofford in Lorelei and Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly! to name a few. But Reams’ true claim to fame has a tie to CCM’s fall musical, 42nd Street. In 1980, Reams originated the role of Billy Lawlor in 42nd Street on Broadway. He was nominated for Tony and Drama Desk awards for his performance.

Reams became a sought-after director and per­former. His natural showmanship and talent found him sharing the spotlight with and direct­ing stars such as Carol Channing, Lauren Bacall, Helen Hayes, Gwen Verdon, Ann Miller, Jerry Orbach and Ethel Merman. He often found himself working with CCM alumni and students, particularly at the MUNY in St. Louis, the na­tion’s oldest and largest outdoor theater. As Reams worked with CCM students each sum­mer, he began to form strong bonds with the young performers, guiding them through the perils of a career as a performer and offering hard-earned knowledge of the business to younger generations.

It became a tradition for Reams to host “CCM Night” during the summers at the MUNY. He made Cincinnati-style chili for “the kids,” who loved having dinner with “the old-timer.” When asked about working with CCM per­formers, Reams said he is thankful for their professionalism and positivity and how they represent CCM once they leave its hal­lowed halls.

“CCM performers listen,” he says. “They’re attentive. You don’t have to tell them things twice.”

Ask any student or alumnus who has run across Reams in New York or elsewhere and they will tell you he is kind, generous and funny and goes out of his way to find ways to work with CCM alumni and students.

Reams will spend several days this month in Cincinnati, working closely with CCM stu­dents in a series of master classes that focus on auditioning, the importance and impact of 42nd Street in the realm of American musical theatre, tap dancing and the business of the business. Reams’ response to being asked why he continues to give back so generously to CCM alumni and students: “I love being part of our continuing family.”

Welcome home, Lee Roy! We love that you are part of our CCM family too.