Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre – Gypsy (Majestic Theatre, Broadway) - ★★★ REVIEW

Host: MickeyJoTheatre
Episode Title: Gypsy (Majestic Theatre, Broadway) - ★★★ REVIEW
Release Date: January 31, 2025

Introduction

In this episode, Mickey Jo delves deep into the latest Broadway revival of the classic musical Gypsy at the Majestic Theatre. As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on social media, Mickey Jo provides a comprehensive analysis of the production, discussing its strengths and shortcomings. He offers insights drawn from his extensive experience reviewing theatre globally, enriched with notable quotes and specific observations from the performance.

Overview of Gypsy

Mickey Jo begins by contextualizing Gypsy within its storied history, noting that this revival marks the sixth Broadway production since its inception. He shares his personal connection to the musical, having previously seen three UK productions, and expresses the significance of experiencing Gypsy on Broadway, likening it to "eating Italian food in Italy"—highlighting the authentic and historic essence Broadway brings to the show.

Notable Quote:
"It felt very special to be there." (00:02:15)

He provides a brief history of Gypsy, identifying it as a 1959 Broadway musical written by Arthur Laurents with a score by Jule Styne and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Based on the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee, the story centers on the domineering stage mother, Rose, and her two daughters, Louise (Gypsy Rose Lee) and June.

Performance Analysis

Audra McDonald as Rose

A significant portion of the review focuses on Audra McDonald's portrayal of Rose, the central and most demanding role in the musical. Mickey Jo praises McDonald’s exceptional acting and vocal prowess but critiques certain aspects of her performance and casting choices.

Notable Quotes:
"Audra is the most decorated, Tony Award-winning performer in Broadway history." (00:00:45)
"I do love the way she's bringing new qualities to the character." (00:24:30)
"Audra is still giving you an acting masterclass." (00:58:10)

While acknowledging McDonald’s brilliance, Mickey Jo notes that her portrayal feels "a little overcooked" and too forceful from the outset, lacking the gradual transformation that makes Rose so compelling. He suggests that McDonald’s refined elegance might clash with the more gritty aspects of Rose's character, leading to a performance that feels slightly miscast within the context of this revival.

Quote with Timestamp:
"I think that she is miscast, contextually." (00:34:55)

Vocal Performance

Mickey Jo addresses the vocal execution of Gypsy, particularly focusing on Rose’s iconic belting numbers. He observes that while McDonald maintains vocal strength, there are deviations from traditional interpretations, such as less aggressive belting and more nuanced vocal choices. This alteration, he argues, might dilute the character's commanding presence.

Quote with Timestamp:
"Audra manages to find a pretty great place to sing this score." (00:25:20)

Direction and Creative Elements

Direction by George C. Wolfe

The production’s direction under George C. Wolfe is scrutinized, with Mickey Jo expressing disappointment in the creative choices that stray from the original material without adding a cohesive new perspective. He criticizes the pacing issues and staging decisions that contribute to the overall feeling of the revival being half-baked.

Quote with Timestamp:
"There is a sense that the production is misguided." (00:45:50)

Set Design

The set design receives mixed reviews. While Mickey Jo appreciates certain set pieces like Louise’s dressing room and Mr. Givings’ office, he finds much of the set inexplicably cheap and flat, struggling to fill the vast space of the renovated Majestic Theatre effectively.

Quote with Timestamp:
"Almost every other set in this production looks inexcusably cheap." (00:36:40)

Choreography and Dance Sequences

Choreographer Camille A. Brown's work is acknowledged positively in specific instances, such as Tulsa’s dance sequence and the homage to Josephine Baker. However, Mickey Jo feels that other dance moments fall flat, struggling to align with the new interpretation of Rose’s character.

Quote with Timestamp:
"Camille A. Brown's choreography really excels here." (00:47:30)

Casting Choices and Color Conscious Casting

Mickey Jo commends the production for its color-conscious casting, highlighting Audra McDonald as the first woman of color to portray Rose in a major Broadway production. He praises the nuanced layers this brings, including the exploration of colorism within Rose’s family dynamic.

Quote with Timestamp:
"This is color-conscious casting, which I celebrate and would like to see more of." (00:33:10)

He notes how June and Louise’s casting adds depth to their characters, subtly weaving themes of preferential treatment and racial bias into the narrative, although he feels these elements are sometimes overshadowed by other aspects of the production.

Character Development

Rose and Louise

Mickey Jo lauds the depth of character development, particularly for Rose, who undergoes a transformation from a charming opportunist to a more relentless and domineering figure. However, he criticizes the portrayal of Louise, feeling that her character lacks a satisfying arc and emotional depth in this revival, resulting in a portrayal that feels "utterly lost."

Quote with Timestamp:
"Louise just feels like an utterly lost character." (00:51:05)

June’s Performance

June, played by Jordan Tyson, receives high praise for her bratty and petulant portrayal, bringing a fresh and dynamic energy to the character that steals the first act.

Quote with Timestamp:
"June stole the first act. It was so deliciously bratty and petulant." (00:52:30)

Specific Criticisms

Pacing and Staging Issues

Mickey Jo points out significant pacing problems, particularly during transformative scenes like Louise’s strip sequence, where lengthy stage directions and underwhelming staging detract from the emotional impact and comedic timing.

Quote with Timestamp:
"We have quite a few moments of long, drawn out announcements with half house lights up." (00:37:55)

Set and Prop Choices

He is critical of certain prop choices, such as Louise being given a fake-looking sheep and the cheap-looking rose sign used during Rose’s Turn, which undermine the production’s overall aesthetic.

Quote with Timestamp:
"It looks like the cheapest-looking rose sign I've ever seen." (00:40:20)

Vision and Cohesiveness

The overarching criticism centers on the production's lack of a clear, cohesive vision. Mickey Jo feels that the revival attempts to merge classic elements with new interpretations without fully committing to either, resulting in a disjointed performance.

Quote with Timestamp:
"It's just a half-baked reinterpretation of the show." (00:55:40)

Supporting Performances

Danny Burstein as Herbie

Danny Burstein’s portrayal of Herbie is praised for its reliability and classic charm. His chemistry with Audra McDonald enhances the dynamic between Rose and Herbie, culminating in standout moments that highlight his character's growth.

Quote with Timestamp:
"Danny Burstein gives a reliable, classic performance of the character." (00:59:10)

Supporting Cast and Ensemble

While the lead performances receive attention, Mickey Jo also acknowledges the efforts of the supporting cast, including Chanel Bailey’s impressive understudy performance as Louise and Jordan Tyson’s vibrant June. However, he notes that the ensemble's choreography and comedic timing are inconsistent, occasionally missing the mark.

Quote with Timestamp:
"Chanel Bailey did a fantastic job as Louise." (00:54:00)

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Mickey Jo wraps up his review by balancing his criticisms with commendations. He emphasizes that despite its shortcomings, the Gypsy revival at the Majestic Theatre features extraordinary performances, particularly from Audra McDonald and the supporting cast. He acknowledges that the production may still offer a rewarding experience for theatre-goers but reiterates his disappointment in its lack of a fully realized vision.

Quote with Timestamp:
"This should have been a great Gypsy. It is a production worthy of its cast." (01:02:15)
"If you're planning to go and see this show, you will enjoy it." (01:02:50)

Mickey Jo encourages listeners to share their own experiences and opinions, fostering a community discussion around the production's impact and execution.

Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with Mickey Jo inviting listeners to subscribe to his YouTube channel and follow his podcast for more theatre reviews, emphasizing his commitment to providing in-depth and honest critiques of Broadway and global theatre productions.

Final Quote:
"Thank you for listening to this review. I hope that everyone is staying safe and that you have a stagey day." (01:04:30)

Key Takeaways:

• Audra McDonald’s Performance: Stellar acting and vocal ability, though potentially miscast and slightly overdriven.

• Character Development: Strong portrayal of Rose, but Louise’s character lacks depth and transformation.

• Direction and Set Design: Direction by George C. Wolfe criticized for pacing and creative inconsistencies; set design deemed largely ineffective.

• Casting: Commended for color-conscious casting, adding new layers to the narrative through racial dynamics.

• Supporting Cast: Danny Burstein and Jordan Tyson deliver standout performances, while ensemble choreography is inconsistent.

• Overall Impression: A mixed review highlighting the high caliber of performances overshadowed by issues in direction, pacing, and cohesive vision.

Recommendation:
Mickey Jo suggests that Gypsy at the Majestic Theatre still offers valuable moments and exceptional performances, especially for fans of McDonald and the musical. However, potential viewers should be aware of the production’s flaws and approach it with tempered expectations.

Engagement:
Listeners are encouraged to share their own reviews and thoughts on the production, fostering a dialogue within the theatre community.