Susan Granger’s review of “Gypsy” (Sam S. Shubert Theater – 2003 spring season)
Director Sam Mendes had a stroke of genius when he cast pretty, petite Bernadette Peters in his revival of “Gypsy” because she totally revises the concept of who Mama Rose is/was, perhaps hitting closer to the truth behind the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee and June Havoc. As portrayed by Ms. Peters, she’s not only a fierce, indomitable stage mother, forcing her daughters to live out her own unrealized ambitions but she’s also a flirtatious, insecure, conflicted woman. Wisely, Ms. Peters doesn’t even attempt the belting style of Ethel Merman, Angela Lansbury, Tyne Daly, etc., relying, instead, on her own sweet, alluring, evocative voice. She’s dazzling!
With music by Jule Styne, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, book by Arthur Laurents, and updated orchestrations by Sid Ramin and Robert Ginzler, “Gypsy” relates the classic story of an archetypal stage mother who grooms her dainty, blonde Baby June for stardom, almost ignoring her klutzy older daughter. Predictably, June gets fed up and runs away, leaving Mama with untalented Louise. And as the vaudeville circuit dies, their agent/Mama’s lover (appealing John Dossett) can only find work in burlesque, where Gypsy Rose Lee (poignant Tammy Blanchard) soon becomes a ladylike stripping sensation. “Let Me Entertain You” takes on a new meaning.
“American Beauty” Oscar-winner Sam Mendes has a talent for discarding convention, delving into the depth of characters and “Coming Up Roses.” Observing Ms. Peters’ expression as she watches her daughters perform, as she learns of June’s desertion, and as she finally realizes her own motivations is a revelation. Bravo! And kudos to production/costume designer Anthony Ward, along with lighting experts Jules Fisher and Peggy Eisenhauer. “Gypsy” has been reborn.