Well, Sondheim must have approved the cut in Rose's Turn, because Arthur as book writer and director couldn't cut something out of a song without the approval of the composer (or his executor) and the lyricist, so I guess they has a reason.
About the last note question: When I saw it there was vibrato, but I'd say a more natural vibrato than she sometime uses (ie more like it just happened rather then she was trying to put it in there) and it sounded like she went up higher on the last note then the way people normally sing it, but I think that may just have to do with the way her voice is and that it naturally has a higher overtone than a lot of other people rather then an actual change in note. I dunno though. That's just my guess.
Here's my two cents regarding the cuts - as I've said before, I was a part of the 1989 revival (obviously, my 'in' to the invited dress). I saw that production literally dozens - perhaps hundreds or close - of times. For most of the show, I knew the lines and lyrics before they were said. However, I did not notice a one of these cuts! That is how galvanizing Patti was/is. I did not notice.
Have I ever shown you my Shattered Dreams box? It's in my Disappointment Closet. - Marge Simpson
Saw the matinee yesterday and I loved it!! Loved Patti, loved the sets (which kinda reminded me of the crumbling theater in Follies), loved the orchestra, it sounded great!!! Hated the stuffed lamb & Chowsie...and def. missed the rape scene. Love the way during Rose's Turn, at the line "how do you like them eggrolls Mr. Goldstone" Patti pretends to kick him in the ass (or the crotch...). Alison Fraser rocked as Tessie Tura...her line delivery was hilarious "Hey you with the neck, I paid six bucks for that g-string now back where ya found it..."
Edith 'Little Edie' Bouvier Beale: Do you think my costume looked all right for Brooks? I think he was a little amazed.
Do you guys think Sondheim will come out at the curtain call for the press night? Not sure if that's tacky with the critics. But I'll do anything to at least see the man in person.
Just got back. I feel like I'm still cheering and applauding. (And yes, I'm aware of how crazy that sounds.)
I have never had an experience like that in the theatre EVER. Tonight I felt the entire mezannine (and probably the whole theatre) leap to their feet screaming after Rose's Turn... I didn't even realize at first how loud I was cheering, myself- it was a pure, unpracticed reaction to one of the most galvanizing, perfect productions I have ever seen.
I can't put it into words. I have loved Gypsy since I was really young. It was the third cast album I ever bought. I've seen quite a few productions- schools, professional theatres, the works. Tonight was beyond description, phenomenal. I am buying tickets and taking my little brother because he has to see it. Laura Benanti and Boyd Gaines were both mind- blowing and definitive, for me. Patti is just as unbelievable as everyone has been saying... and more. Perfect cast. Perfect. Forgive me if this is a rambling post!
I want to see it again right now.
P.S. Barbara Cook was in the audience tonight too!
I can't even begin to explain how watching this performance changed my life. Patti LuPone is BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY. It was my first time seeing the show, and I just couldn't believe the level of ... gah, EVERYTHING! I was a potential Theatre double major up at college before watching, but now ... boy. If only I can get to ONE PERCENT of Patti's performance level.
Gangway, world, get off of my runway. - Mama Rose, Gypsy
A bird cage I plan to hang,
I'll get to that someday...
A bird cage for a bird who flew away
Around the world. - Edie, Grey Gardens
Last night was SO much fun. I thought the audience was never going to stop cheering and let Sondheim and Laurents off the stage. :) LOVED how LuPone waited and waited for them to come on. Very gracious.
Okay, you all have me excited beyond words to see the show tonight. I am really hoping it is as good as everyone says, 'cuz i loves me some Patti LuPone and I love GYPSY.
I would really appreciate a video. Actually that's probably an understatement.
Now what would you say if today I started over?
Without a thing but this taped together four leaf clover
And I'll pretend like everything is already alright
And I'll run toward the sun till the castle's out of sight