Gypsy presented by BrightSide Theatre at Meiley-Swallow Hall

Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended

"...Everyone wants approval and attention, to be noticed, to be liked. In the eyes of many people, becoming successful is equated with being loved. This is the universal theme that propels this classic show that playwright Arthur Laurents subtitled, "A Musical Fable." While on the surface, this is a show business saga. It's a success story that's set in the world of theater, particularly in Vaudeville and Burlesque of the 20's and 30's. The story is also a twist on the Hans Christian Andersen tale of "The Ugly Duckling," where a homely, awkward young bird grows up to become a beautiful, graceful swan. But because everybody, regardless of gender, age or occupation, harbors the need to be noticed, praised and loved, "Gypsy" is a fable for every one of us."

NewCity Chicago - Recommended

"...With a book by Arthur Laurents, music by Jules Styne, and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, the musical is based on the memoir of burlesque star Gypsy Rose Lee. Madame Rose tries to make vaudeville stars of her two daughters- bookish, awkward Louise and blonde, musically talented June. Their act gets progressively worse as vaudeville fades. Louise doesn't want to be on stage at all, and pines for the approval of her mother, who too obviously favors June."