What does it take to be a star? Talent, confidence and the passion to pursue a dream. If you are looking for a show with all of this in spades, North Shore Theatre Company’s production of Gypsy is the one for you!
Gypsy premiered on Broadway in 1959 and was then performed in Australia 16 years later in 1975. It is a story that has been retold countless times in its 66-year-long history, speaking to its timeless appeal. Now, North Shore Theatre Company have brought this impeccable story to life, and it is a delight for the senses.
Upon arriving at the theatre, you are immediately transported into the backstage dressing room of a burlesque production. The cast, in glorious feathered and sequined costumes, mill around the space. Michael Haratzis has created a set that perfectly facilitates seamless transitions between different locations.
As the show begins, we are introduced to young performers, sisters June and Louise, as they try to break onto the vaudeville circuit. Or more accurately, as they succumb to the whims of their overbearing and iconic stage mother, Rose.
The first act follows the early stages of their careers, including their big break. However, we quickly begin to see the toll of the relentless pressure to be perfect. This sets the stage for the emotional rollercoaster that is the second act.
Director Matt Dorahy, alongside a stellar production team, have created a marvellous show. They present a stunningly unique perspective, framing it through the lens of our dreamer Louise, who grows up to become the infamous striptease artist Gypsy Rose Lee.
The music is absolutely phenomenal, with musical director Xia-Lian Wilson leading the extraordinary cast and orchestra through the emotional highs and lows of the show.
Co-choreographers Georgia Van Der Sman and Jess Luth have perfectly incorporated show-stopping movement into the performance, making it an utter delight to watch. The vaudeville numbers, in particular, are delightfully over the top. Exactly as they should be!
The cast are true storytellers, hitting all the right emotional beats and drawing us into this beautiful tale from the very first moment you enter the theatre. Kristin Kok plays the perfect overbearing stage mother, Rose. She is an absolute powerhouse of a performer, stunningly embodying Rose’s desperation through her character choices and soaring voice.
Sabine Anais plays Louise, who goes on to become Gypsy Rose Lee. Her transformation from loyal support artist to the star of the show is breathtakingly beautiful to watch.
Lauren Mitchell, as Louise’s sister June, is delightful. She portrays the role with a wonderful blend of soft authenticity towards her sister, and hilarious physical and vocal characterisation while performing as the star of the first vaudeville act. Together, the two actresses have a beautiful relationship as sisters.
Herbie, the bumbling yet caring agent, is delightfully portrayed by Rick Barta. He has an easy charm with the other performers, making him instantly likeable. Sam Larielle-Jones portrays Tulsa, and his boyish charms and dancing are wonderful to watch.
The young performers who play Baby June and Baby Louise, Isla Watson and Mila Gu, respectively, have the difficult job of starting off the story, and they absolutely rise to the challenge. They are both so tremendously talented and perfectly embody their characters.
Both the adult and children’s ensembles are absolutely incredible. They tell the story so beautifully in their physical characterisation, movement and vocals. I particularly loved the moment at the beginning of the second act where the children and their adult counterparts come on stage to perform together.
(There are alternate tracks for the lead roles, as well as a Red and Blue cast for the children’s ensemble.)
While watching this performance, I had the opportunity to sit next to the family of one of the young performers who was starring in a lead role for the first time. It was beautiful to see the immense pride and joy of the family, and this was mirrored in every single audience member within the theatre.
That is what I love about community theatre: it brings people together. It is such a tremendous celebration of the talent and passion of the many people who come together to produce the show. North Shore Theatre Company have developed a beautiful supportive community, and that is apparent in every moment of the experience as an audience member.
As the producers identify in the program, there are some content warnings, with the inclusion of mild coarse language, sexual innuendo and depictions of stripping. These are all handled tremendously tastefully, but may just be worthwhile considering when deciding who to bring along.
Congratulations to the entire team for their marvellous production. As a celebration of talent and passion, Gypsy by North Shore Theatre Company is a delight for the senses. I highly recommend taking the time to see this show and bask in the courage it takes to pursue a dream.
Gypsy runs to 27 September at Zenith Theatre & Convention Centre. Corner Railway & McIntosh Streets, Chatswood NSW 2067.
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1432108
Website: https://www.northshoretheatrecompany.org/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/northshoretheatreco/
Photo credits: Yingying Zhang
