The intensity of Broadway has taken on new heights with the revival of Gypsy, featuring the unmatched talent of six-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald as Mama Rose. Directed by the celebrated George C. Wolfe, this production delves deep not only as one of Broadway’s greatest masterpieces but also as one of its most psychologically complex narratives, examining the ferocity of ambition and the unyielding nature of maternal love.
Set at the iconic Majestic Theatre, Gypsy is inspired by the memoirs of the famous striptease artist Gypsy Rose Lee and has become known as the ultimate tale of mothers and daughters. It dives headfirstinto the relentless pursuit of fame and the American dream, showcasing the central figure of Rose as she seeks to project her dreams onto her daughters. Outside its grand narrative arc, the production employs outstanding performances, exceptional design elements, and the poignant music by Jule Styne, with lyrics penned by the late but legendary Stephen Sondheim.
McDonald described the role on CBS Sunday Morning as akin to climbing Mount Everest. "Everest is there for a reason. People want to climb it, right? I mean, it’s there because it’s majestic and it’s incredible, and people are like, ‘I want to figure out if I can get up there.’ And that's what I'm trying to do," she recounted, showcasing her eagerness to take on the complicated character of Rose.
But the question on everyone's mind is whether Rose is portrayed as monstrous or sympathetic. "I think she is a dedicated mother. I think she is a fiercely protective mother. I think she is a mother who does not realize the umbilical cord has been cut. I don't see Rose as a monster mother at all," said McDonald during her interview, providing insight to the emotional and complex nature of the role.
Wolfe goes on to explain the depths of Rose’s character, contemplating the motivations behind her ferocity: "I admire the ferocity. I think it's about not enough: Not enough money, not enough space, not enough love, not enough approval, not enough success. And it becomes this dynamic of people wanting desperately what is just beyond their reach." The duality of Rose’s character touch on universal themes of love, ambition, sacrifice, and the detrimental effects of expectation.
The new revival is also notable for being the first on Broadway where all characters of the pivotal family — the mother and daughters — are played by Black actors. This representation adds additional layers to the story, especially considering the dreams and ambitions traditionally assigned to stage mothers. McDonald offers her thoughts on how societal perceptions of motherhood often conflict with personal dreams. "I did what society laid out for me: ‘No.’ And look where it got me: ‘No.’ My kids are just supposed to go to school like other girls, and cook and clean and sit and die? And especially, as a Black woman saying, ‘No, they’re not gonna do this,’ adds depth to the character."
While McDonald grapples with the intensity of Rose’s character, the production insists on being more than sheer drama. It showcases showstopping musical numbers making the hard-hitting story accessible and engaging for audiences. This balance invigorates the play with humor and warmth, even as it examines the darker elements of fame and sacrifice.
A major aspect of this production is its incredible supporting cast, which features Tony Award Winner Danny Burstein, Joy Woods, Jordan Tyson, alongside Olivier Award winner Lesli Margherita, among others. Their performances build on the grand narrative of ambition and familial struggle, ensuring the emotional weight of the story resonates with every viewer. The ensemble cast includes rising stars and seasoned actors alike, all contributing to the rich fabric of the production.
The creative team behind Gypsy includes several Tony Award winners. The music direction handled by Andy Einhorn, the choreography by four-time Tony nominee Camille A. Brown, and the scenic design led by four-time Tony winner Santo Loquasto create not just visual splendor but also uphold the story’s emotional framework.
With lighting by Jules Fisher and Peggy Eisenhauer and sound design by Tony Award winner Scott Lehrer, this revival sets the stage not only for captivating performances but for innovative storytelling through the lens of design and music. Gypsy transforms the stage with its visual spectacle, combining heartfelt performances with stunning artistic elements.
Wolfe's production has certainly stirred conversation around the role of Rose's push for her daughters. Critics have noted the fine line between nurturing ambition and causing harm. Erick Neher of the Hudson Review states, “The interesting thing about Gypsy is it’s not really about Gypsy Rose Lee or even her sister June. It’s about their mother — the tyrannical, fabulous woman who pushed these two young girls onto the stage.” This deep psychological exploration of Rose makes the character's portrayal even more relevant and poignant to current audiences, echoing the pursuit of dreams often at odds with familial bonds.
With only the opening week behind them, McDonald and Wolfe are already witnessing the emotional and stimulating responses from audiences. They maintain the commitment to tackling the questions of aspiration, identity, and the struggle between self-fulfillment and nurturing the next generation. Audiences are thrilled by both the intensity and the charm of the production — leaving them on the edge of their seats as they revel not only in music and performance but also heart-wrenching truths.
The revival of Gypsy is scheduled to enchant Broadway-goers at the Majestic Theatre. With its powerful performances and the deep emotional undertones explored through Rose's character and the mother-daughter relationships, it may well be the definitive version of this beloved classic.
