Audra McDonald Blows the Roof off the House in Gypsy

A Broadway Legend Commands the Stage

Director George C. Wolfe has crafted a masterpiece in the current revival of Gypsy on Broadway. The play stars Audra McDonald (Private Practice) as Rose the stage mother from hell who lives vicariously through her daughter Baby June’s (Marley Lianne Gomes/ Jade Smith) talent while ignoring her eldest daughter Louise’s (Kyleigh Vickers/Joy Woods) talent. When Rose’s obsession with June’s career causes June to skip town, Rose turns her attention on Louise, forcing her into a career in Burlesque to fill the void. Audra McDonald as Rose is a force of nature. This is the performance of a lifetime. But to say this gifted actor is performing does not give her enough credit for what she does in this role. Her work is magnificent and it is invisible. The discomfort Rose feels as a woman halfway through her life, who was never recognized for her talent is devastating to witness. McDonald’s embodiment of Rose comes from a place of deep and grounded truth that is heartbreaking. Rose resides in the state of frenzied chaos knowing that time is short and her children are the only way she can realize her dream. Rose is blinded by her yearning and can’t even think of the other possibilities that are available to her. As her adult daughter Louise, Joy Woods is majestic. The transformation from awkward child to a world famous burlesque star is glorious. It’s obvious everyone is having a fantastic time as they sing and dance at the top of their game. I’m not a big fan of musical theatre but watching George C. Wolfe’s staging of this iconic musical was magical.