Everything’s Coming Up Audra in ‘Gypsy’
The latest Broadway revival of Gypsy has made its way to the Majestic Theatre, which once housed the longest-running production in Broadway history. With Audra McDonald taking on the iconic role of Rose, this production reinvigorates the legendary 1959 musical with fresh energy and emotional depth. This revival, directed by George C. Wolfe, based on the real life story of Burlesque dancer Gypsy Rose Lee and the subsequent musical from Stephen Sondheim, Jules Styles, and Arthur Laurents, boasts a stellar cast, including Danny Burstein as Herbie, Joy Woods as Louise, Jordan Tyson as June, and Kevin Csolak as Tulsa. Featuring a powerhouse performance by McDonald, strong supporting performances, and meticulous production design, this Gypsy gives this classic new life.
[Warning: Spoilers from Gypsy are below!]
Audra McDonald’s electrifying Rose
Audra McDonald, a six-time Tony Award winner for her roles in Carousel, Ragtime, and Raisin in the Sun, delivers a truly groundbreaking performance as Rose, the relentless stage mother whose ambition for her daughters drives the story. Historically, Gypsy has been a vehicle for some of Broadway’s most celebrated actresses, including Ethel Merman, Angela Lansbury, Patti LuPone, and Bernadette Peters. McDonald joins this esteemed group but also carves out a new space for herself, bringing an entirely fresh interpretation of the role.
What makes McDonald’s performance so unique is the emotional complexity she brings to Rose. Instead of portraying her simply as an overbearing, self-serving mother, McDonald finds the vulnerability that drives Rose’s unrelenting ambition. Her rendition of “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” is as chilling as it is exhilarating, a moment of pure theatrical power where she convinces both the audience and herself that she can will success into existence.
And then there is “Rose’s Turn,” a staggering, emotionally raw performance that brought down the house, resulting in a standing ovation. Her voice, already legendary, adds operatic grandeur to Jule Styne’s score, making familiar numbers feel freshly minted.
Gypsy’s stellar supporting cast
Danny Burstein, a Broadway favorite and theater legend, plays Herbie, Rose’s partner in every way, except marriage, with a warmth and sincerity that makes his inevitable heartbreak all the more painful to watch. His chemistry with McDonald is undeniable, making Herbie’s devotion to Rose both believable and tragic.
Joy Woods shines as Louise, seamlessly portraying the transition from overlooked wallflower to the confident and alluring Gypsy Rose Lee. Her performance of “Let Me Entertain You” is mesmerizing, showcasing both her vocal prowess and her ability to convey the emotional complexity of the character’s transformation.
Jordan Tyson brings charm and energy to June, capturing the frustration of a child forced into a life she doesn’t want. Kevin Csolak’s Tulsa is a standout, particularly in his dance numbers, showcasing his character’s dreams of something more beyond vaudeville.
Direction and production values
Director George C. Wolfe makes bold and intelligent choices in this revival, ensuring that the story feels fresh while staying true to its classic roots. The decision to cast the central family as Black adds a powerful new dimension to the narrative, providing an added layer of commentary on race and opportunity in show business. Wolfe’s direction heightens the themes of ambition, identity, and sacrifice, emphasizing Rose’s desperate desire to create a future for her daughters at any cost.
Santo Loquasto’s set design effectively evokes the seedy, transient world of the Depression-era vaudeville circuit, filled with worn-out theaters, rundown dressing rooms, and fading marquees. The costumes, designed by Toni-Leslie James, trace the characters’ evolution beautifully, from June and Louise’s juvenile vaudeville outfits to Gypsy Rose Lee’s dazzling, sophisticated gowns.
The 26-piece orchestra, under the direction of Andy Einhorn, breathes thrilling life into Jule Styne’s timeless score, ensuring that every note soars.
The legacy of the Majestic Theatre
The Majestic Theatre, located at 247 West 44th Street, is one of Broadway’s most historic venues. Designed by architect Herbert J. Krapp, it opened in 1927 and has since been home to many legendary productions. Most notably, The Phantom of the Opera called the Majestic home for an unprecedented 35 years, making it the longest-running show in Broadway history until its closure in 2023.
The Majestic’s grand proscenium and sweeping design make it the perfect venue for a show as epic as Gypsy. This revival only adds another chapter to its storied legacy, proving that the Majestic remains one of Broadway’s most essential houses.
What’s next for this Stephen Sondheim revival
While Audra McDonald’s performance alone is worth the price of admission, it’s hard to say how long the show itself will last if she chose to move on from it. While the cast is incredibly talented, when lined up next to other revivals like Sunset Boulevard, the age of the show is felt and lacks an interest among younger audience members. In addition, it will most likely struggle without Audra McDonald’s stardom filling the seats. But perhaps Gypsy will surprise us, much as the character in the show, and will continue building momentum and success without McDonald’s presence in the musical.
If classical musical theater is what you’re after, look no further than Gypsy, Broadway’s latest revival, currently playing at The Majestic Theatre now through August. Have you seen this current production? What did you think of Audra McDonald’s performance as Rose? Let us know on social media @mycosmiccircus or @boxseatbabes or CosmicCircusBroadway on Bluesky!
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