GYPSY
Directed by Sean Duxbury
Sean Duxbury directed this production brilliantly. He had,
of course, a first rate team of actors and actresses plus
untried youngsters. Swift scene changes resulted in the
smooth running of the show and the ingenious use of the
strobe to effect the changing ages of Baby Louise, Baby
June and the newsboys to teenagers was superbly handled.
Wyn Tootell’s Rose was a powerful and poignant performance.
Her strength of character dominated the stage and her
fellow actors. Her singing was excellent but the most
telling part of the performance came towards the end when,
against the stark backdrop of an empty stage, she realises
she pushed her children hard because she, herself never
quite made it.
Well done to John Johnston in his three roles, all
characterised differently. Barbara Wolfe, Diane Kelly and
Rena Demming as Tessie Tura, Mazeppa and Electra all
entered into the spirit of their respective parts. A bright
cheery performance was given by Jenny Walsh as the very
young Baby Louise, and also Corrine Baxter as Baby June.
The teenage Louise, Victoria Ward, gave a reliable
performance and Gemma Thomson as June managed the
transition from shy stripper to seasoned performer with
subtlety. Her last scenes with her mother were admirable.
Alan Pearson as Herbie gave sensitive dimension to his
role. All other parts were handled well by the excellent
cast. Brendan Cleverley’s orchestra managed the brash music
well and scenery, though kept to the minimum, was adequate.
Well done.
