Music
Audra McDonald Discusses Sondheim's GYPSY and A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC
2024-12-15
When it comes to the world of Broadway, few shows have left as indelible a mark as Gypsy. This musical, with its powerful story of mothers and daughters, ambition and fame, has captivated audiences for years. Now, with a new production on the horizon, fans are eagerly awaiting what's to come.

Uncover the Magic of Gypsy on Broadway

Gypsy's Origins and Inspiration

Gypsy, suggested by the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee, is a true Broadway classic. It tells the story of a mother's pursuit of stardom through her daughters, exploring themes of ambition, fame, and the lengths one will go to achieve the American dream. The musical features a book by Tony Award Winner Arthur Laurents, music by Tony and Academy Award Winner Jule Styne, and lyrics by Tony, Grammy, Academy Award and Pulitzer Prize Winner Stephen Sondheim. This combination of talent has made Gypsy a must-see for theater lovers.The production also boasts an impressive ensemble cast. Directed by six-time Tony Award-winning Director George C. Wolfe, it stars six-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald, Tony Award Winner Danny Burstein, Joy Woods, Jordan Tyson, Kevin Csolak, Olivier Award winner Lesli Margherita, Lili Thomas, Mylinda Hull, Jacob Ming-Trent, Kyleigh Vickers, Marley Lianne Gomes & Jade Smith Natalie Wachen and Tryphena Wade. The ensemble features Shanel Bailey, Jace Bently, Brandon Burks, Hunter Capellán, Tony d’Alelio, Summer Rae Daney, Kellie Jean Hoagland, Sasha Hutchings, Aliah James, Brittney Johnson, Zachary Daniel Jones, Ethan Joseph, Andrew Kober, Krystal Mackie, James McMenamin, Cole Newburg, Joe Osheroff, Majo Rivero, Ken Robinson, Sally Shaw, Thomas Silcott, Brendan Sheehan, Jayden Theophile, Jordan Wynn, and Iain Young. Each member brings their own unique talent to the stage, adding to the magic of the show.

The Creative Team Behind Gypsy

The creative team behind Gypsy is equally impressive. Santo Loquasto, a four-time Tony Award winner, designed the scenic elements, creating a visually stunning backdrop for the story. Toni-Leslie James, a four-time Tony Award nominee, designed the costumes, bringing the characters to life with her exquisite designs. Jules Fisher and Peggy Eisenhauer, nine-time and three-time Tony Award winners respectively, designed the lighting, adding depth and atmosphere to each scene. Tony Award winner Scott Lehrer designed the sound, enhancing the emotional impact of the music. Academy Award winner Mia Neal designed the hair and wig, ensuring that each character looked their best. Michael Clifton designed the makeup, adding the final touches to the performers' looks. And William Berloni Theatrical Animals, Inc. provided the animals, adding an extra element of charm to the production.

Gypsy's Future and Potential

While discussing how Gypsy came about with The New Yorker, McDonald revealed that another iconic Sondheim role might be on the horizon in the future. She spoke with Stephen Sondheim about playing Mama Rose in Gypsy after Gavin Creel suggested the idea at a Thanksgiving dinner. "There was another show of [Sondheim’s] too that [Sondheim] wanted me to be a part of as well. I said is it okay if we do this one first, and he was like, whichever you want to do first is fine," said McDonald. When pushed to name the other show, McDonald revealed it was A Little Night Music. Although there are no immediate plans for a revival, fans are hopeful that this beloved musical will continue to shine on the Broadway stage for years to come.
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