BWW Reviews: Let CMPAC Entertain You with GYPSY

Creative Ministries Performing Arts Centre's (CMPAC) latest musical, Gypsy, is certainly one for the books. The Ronald R. Green III directed production boasts a great cast and a well told story. This classic piece runs through February 9th at the Oakdale, Long Island, venue.

The story is based on the memoirs of burlesque star Gypsy Rose Lee. The late Arthur Laurents penned the book that primarily cuts to the core of the characters hungry for attention. Actually, everyone is starved for attention in this story.

This biggest diva is the over-bearing "Momager" Rose, portrayed exquisitely by Mary Ellin Kurtz. Early on, Rose pushes shy Louise, her eldest daughter, to be a part of their ultimately terrible acts that highlight's her youngest, June. Many people walk away from Rose with her pushy "it's my way or the highway" attitude. This is including a potential husband and several of the actors in the show. Indeed a favorite among the audience were her incredible renditions of the iconic "Everything's Coming Up Roses" and "Rose's Turn".

Louise, portrayed by Samantha Carroll, seems to blossom later in the story. In an effort to help them out financially, Louise agrees to take part in a burlesque act at the seedy theatre they were performing in. Becoming fascinated with this new genre of entertainment, Louise turns out to be a star as Gypsy Rose Lee. She goes as far as refusing her mother backstage and telling her off in an effort to gain independence. This after June suddenly leaves with one of the guys from their company to do a new act saying pretty much the same thing - Rose didn't take the hint.

If I did have one qualm, it was there was no orchestra. The beautiful Stephen Sondheim/Jule Styne score was played on tracks. This made for some abrupt - perhaps awkward - moments at the end of the performances. However, the terrific cast was certainly enough to tell this story wonderfully.

And so it certainly seems that CMPAC has another hit on their hands with Gypsy. This is a classic show probably every theatre fan should see, and CMPAC's cast does it justice. A wonderful cast, beautiful music, and an gripping story make for a wonderful night of theatre.

Gypsy is presented by Creative Ministries Performing Art Centre of Oakdale, Long Island, through February 9th. Book by Arthur Laurents, Music by Jule Styne, Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, based on the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee, Directed by Ronald R. Green III (also Sets and Costumes), Musical Direction by Mel Newman, Choreography by Ryan Nolin, Lighting Design by Alison Weinberger, Sound Design by Brianne Boyd. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (631) 218-2810 or visit www.cmpac.com.