Lee Roy Reams Will Explore On and Offstage Relationship With Lauren Bacall in Me & Betty

42nd Street Tony nominee Lee Roy Reams will debut his latest solo show, Me & Betty (AKA Lauren Bacall), January 24–25, 2025, at 54 Below.

Through stories and songs, the actor and director will discuss his relationship with the late stage and screen star, both on and off stage. Reams was the first to play an openly gay man in a Broadway musical, 1970's Applause, which starred Bacall.

"He knew, worked with, and loved Lauren Bacall," press notes state, "but when they were alone, she was Betty Joan Perske from the Bronx!"

Reams made his Broadway debut in the chorus of Sweet Charity (1966) with Gwen Verdon. He went on to appear with Bacall in Applause (1970) and Carol Channing in Lorelei (1974) and Hello, Dolly! (1978 revival, in which he played Cornelius Hackl). Other roles include Billy Lawlor in 42nd Street, Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast, and Roger De Bris in The Producers, but in more recent years he has concentrated on directing, including numerous productions of Hello, Dolly!, including the 1995 revival with Channing reprising her Dolly Gallagher Levi.

Prior to his new show, Reams will reprise his Uncensored! For Adults Only! cabaret evening October 8 at 54 Below.

Click here for ticket information for Me & Betty.