Cappies Review: Langley High School's 'Gypsy'

McLEAN, VA — "Sing out, Langley!" Langley High School's production of Gypsy is an undeniable hit filled with unforgettable performances, upbeat song, and dance. Gypsy, is a musical based on the true story of vaudeville-era stage mom extraordinaire, Rose. It is based on the memoir by Rose's daughter, burlesque star, Gypsy Rose Lee.

It details the events of her life growing up as a child star on the vaudeville circuit with a talented sister, June, and an overbearing stage mother, Rose. The show premiered on Broadway in 1959 and has been revived five times. It features music by Jule Styne, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and a book by Arthur Laurents.

Jamie Goodson stepped into the iconic role of Mama Rose. Rose has been played by a handful of seasoned Broadway actresses including Ethel Merman, Bernadette Peters, and Patti LuPone. Goodson joins their ranks, giving an awe-inspiring performance and truly pouring her heart into the role.

Rose is a larger-than-life, over the top individual and Goodson brought that to the stage, while remaining unapologetically raw and real and capturing Rose's flaws. Goodson's shining moment came in the show-stopping, "Rose's Turn." Her emotional take on the classic number unveiled Rose's frustrations with her life, as she finally drops her brash exterior, giving way to reveal a young girl who grew older with big, unrealized dreams.

Gypsy is a star vehicle and Goodson was certainly that star. In one of the most shocking transformations in Broadway history, the shy, demure Louise becomes the confident and seductive Gypsy Rose Lee. Jessica Peros was perfection in the role. Her angelic soprano in the number "Little Lamb" was heartbreaking and her sweet duet, "If Mama was Married" with sister, June (Sydney Copp), was adorable.

Peros embodied innocence until, in a single moment, she sheds her skin in "The Strip" and transforms into the alluring Gypsy Rose Lee. Peros and Goodson worked extremely well together to create and develop the complex relationship between their two characters.

Mark Bosset played the lovable Herbie. Bosset put so much heart into the character, who is constantly having his heart broken. Bosset did a fantastic job acting in the background of scenes, most notably in the Act 2 dressing room scene. His duets, "Small World" and "You'll Never Get Away From Me" with Goodson were particularly enjoyable.

The Newsboys lept onto the stage with sparkling smiles, clear voices, and infectious energy. The boys showed off an impressive dance ability. Especially commendable is Quinn Casey as Tulsa. Casey is a true triple threat.

He complimented an incredible talent for dance with a velvet voice and created a memorable character in the upbeat, "All I Need is the Girl."Strong, adult-like performances from high school actors made Langley's production one to be remembered.

Langley asks audiences "May We Entertain You?" With the talent displayed in Gypsy, the answer will always be yes!

Review by Kelsey Loesch of Paul VI Catholic High School

Photo: Diana Lim