Gypsy at West Coast Ensemble Theatre

Recently, Fans of MuMo ventured over to the Theatre of Arts Arena Stage to catch West Coast Ensemble Theatre’s production of GYPSY, a perennial Fan favorite.  Directed by Richard Israel, the production has been skillfully stripped down to fit the venue, at times bringing the show almost into the audience members’ laps.

In the title role is one of our very own “gorgeous ladies of MuMo” Stephanie Wall.  At turns warm and vulnerable, self-assured and forceful, Ms. Wall brings amusing and appealing nuances to her role, easily charming the audience. 

Jan Sheldrick and Stephanie Wall

As the Mama Rose to Ms. Wall’s Gypsy Rose Lee, Jan Sheldrick tackles the part of the driven, occasionally-monstrous-yet-somehow-loving stage mother with gusto.

Additionally, Michael Matthys and Kaylie Swanson, as Herbie and June respectively, offer adept and engaging support, each giving poignant, truthful performances.

Stephanie Wall as Gypsy Rose Lee

Of special note are Sara Stuckey as Tessie Tura, Kelly Jean Clair as Mazeppa and Jessica Schatz as Electra.  Their performance of “You Gotta Get a Gimmick” is deliciously hilarious and so perfectly second-rate, a combination that could only be captured by three very skilled comediennes.  Ms. Stuckey, in particular, can twirl a tassel (or two) with the best of them and is a real gem on stage.

The rest of the cast lends delightful support for the entire show.  The children are adorable and well cast, and many of the other actors adeptly handle at least double-duty in the many roles they play.

Overall, WCE provides an enjoyable evening of entertainment with their production of this classic show.  Katherine Simon

GYPSY is now playing on the Theatre of Arts Arena Stage

in Hollywood (1625 N. Las Palmas Avenue).

For $25 discount tickets use our Special Promo Code: GIMMICK

Reserve your tickets by calling (323) 655-0108 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            (323) 655-0108      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or by visiting westcoastensemble.org.
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