Gypsy

With numbers like ‘May We Entertain You’, ‘Everthing’s Coming Up Roses’, ‘Together Wherever We Go’ and Mama Rose’s dreams daughters Louise and June become stars, ‘Gypsy’ was born. Offering her ‘Newsboy’ act to Dallas Vaudeville manager, who is about to refuse, kind Herbie – agent/candy salesman, persuades otherwise and become Rose’s agent.  He proposes to Rose who will not marry until her girls are stars. It’s a struggle, they’re evicted, it’s the depression. June has an acting offer providing Rose stays away!  Journeying on, June marries and runs away.  Rose now deserted, switches her ambitions to Louise. Herbie accidentally books them into a strip joint. Despite little talent she learns and stays. Rose again promises to marry Herbie and finish the act. The star stripper is arrested and Rose persuades Louise to stand in, she hits stardom becoming the Queen of Strip, Gypsy Rose Lee. Finally, Herbie walks out.  Rose is jealous and resentful. Louise returns to make friends with Mama as the final curtain drops.

Lee Hatcher’s A5 programme in striking black and gold silhouetted female figure portrayed on the front cover, with insert pages black and white was packed with good information, advertisements from local supporters and photos – always good to identify performers and crew, and easy to read.

Musical direction debut was under the baton of Peter Bettley, with orchestra members placed rear stage, bringing the actors naturally towards front of stage which worked rather well.

Of course, much of the action takes place ‘on stage’ therefore using just the blacks and small strategically placed pieces of furniture too worked – thus keeping it simple - with the four-man team designing and constructing. Stage crew moved quietly and efficiently, with slick changes of the professional scripted boards on easel showing the scene geography.  Use of auditorium and side entrances imaginative.

Sound operated by NODA trained technician Penny Tobin came across with clarity both for vocals and script. I did find the conductor’s hand somewhat distracting.  James Harper created interesting lighting effects – coloured signage and ladies who flashed!

Effective costumes from Sharon Pickles, good colourful opening with the delightful children’s acts including a mass of balloons for Amelie Watts, with Baby Louise Erin Hennessey and Baby June Ellie Pattenden being the matinee girls.  Lots of red, white and blue, stars and stripes, not forgetting the dancing Cow.  Good all round appearance for the early nineteen twenties, with appropriate matching footwear.

A slick co-production from Jack and Louisa with a very strong, powerful Rose – Lisa Ferris who didn’t let up for a moment – such energy and wonderful hearing every word sung and spoken.  She was ably supported by lovable Herbie played by Andy Fairweather, her two baby daughters Erin and Ellie and older June portrayed by Charlotte Maugham-Jones learning point ballet in such a short amount of time and Louise Chloe Swan - both giving splendid performances. Good well-rehearsed movement throughout. Cameo parts were well characterised and the ensemble had plenty of characters to play out and enjoy.  ‘Chowsie’ the Dog should have special mention too.

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