Broadway's 'Gypsy,' and the mother of all stage mothers

Many consider the Arthur Laurents-Jule Styne-Stephen Sondheim musical "Gypsy" one of the greatest ever written. In the new revival on Broadway, six-time Tony Award-winner Audra McDonald takes on one of musical theater's most demanding roles: Rose, who pushes her daughters onto the stage. Correspondent Mo Rocca talks with McDonald, director George C. Wolfe, and theater expert Erick Neher about Rose, and whether she should be viewed as a monster or a sympathetic character.

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[noelfernandez]

I saw it Saturday just after Thanksgiving. I loved it... Audra was spectacular as was the rest of the cast, particularly the leads. She stopped the show right before the ending with her last number, Rose's Turn. It was electrifying with a standing ovation that lasted several minutes. It was an honor to witness it.

[samosullivan]

That delivery of “I have a job, dear”!

I knew she’d be perfect for Momma Rose!

P.S. Have to give a special mention to Danny Burstein for that perfect reaction to “You might get a job, dear”.
Herbie knew Miss Cratchitt had gone too far!

[LightningRoundst]

I have seen every revival since Tyne Daly, Audra was STUNNING! She was so focused and driven as Mama Rose. Just an amazing and deeply moving performance. Honestly, the entire show was great. If possible, go see it!

[Dreadpiraterose]

Saw the show this past Friday! Stellar casting. Audra and Joy were fabulous! And the kids were particularly outstanding in their own right!

[melissagray]

What I wouldn’t give to be able to go see this! I absolutely adore Audra McDonald. She’s legendary! ❤

[christopherpuckett]

Ok, this looks INCREDIBLE, and also, DEAR LORD, does ANYONE cry as beautifully as Joy Woods???

[erolibrahimovic]

The million dollar question though is: are we gonna get a pro shot to IMMORTALIZE Audra’s incredible performance?

[MrMdprosser]

I saw the show a couple weeks ago, and Audra was just on a whole other level. One of the best performances I've ever seen on a Broadway stage. This woman is a once-in-a-lifetime talent, and if you have the chance to see her in this role, definitely take it. You won't be disappointed.

[broadwaymike]

Audra looks amazing!!! Production is beautiful. One confession is it's so strange getting used to the Majestic wit GYPSY after the past 35 YEARS of PHANTOM.

[Ambimom]

I saw the original with Ethel Merman from the second balcony! I still have the playbill. I love Audra McDonald, a very worthy successor, so break a leg!

[hummersd]

So incredible—THIS is the production to see this season. 🙌 Audra, phenomenal. This “Gimmick”, best of all the versions I’ve seen. Rising stars Joy Woods (Louise), Jordan Tyson (June) emotional and heartfelt performances.

[elissakartman]

This is the best feature you have put together Mo. I loved it. I saw a touring company in the early 60s, and it stands the test of time. I don't King Lear, but Mama Rose loves her daughters ... and it's there in the book and song. Thank you for this feature.

[davidgeary]

Why does someone always have to be the best? Murman, Russell, Lansbury and many others all brought something special of their own to the role.

[Alejoninla]

to all the children out there being exploited or trafficked, you are worthy of love and there is help out there, it gets better!

[terryhammond]

"Goodbye to blueberry pie..." I saw Ethel Merman do it at the Imperial Theater when I was 13. Orchestra seat was $5.50!

[marytheresejacksonlutz]

One of my favorite movies, “Gypsy”. I would love to see Gypsy on Broadway

[bradleycrouch]

Gypsy and Mame, two unforgettable dames!

[Dimi]

The push that Mama Rose has with this production will be felt. Not only a single woman during this period but a single black woman as well.
I can’t wait to hear this show sing in this light!🫶🏽👏🏽👏🏽❤

[raeannebaruffa]

I saw it two weeks ago! Audra is amazing as was the entire cast!!

[howardalter]

Audra is giving the greatest performance I ever seen on Broadway period!