GYPSY is a score that I know intimately, and I don't consider myself an originalist, but I have so many problems with this album and this production because the changes they've made do not improve upon the score as written.
It all sounds rather sluggish and dry, despite the tempi being more appropriately brisk than the LuPone recording. I don't like the mix on the Overture, but I don't like the mix in the theater for this production either.
How on earth is Audra being allowed to say SUMMA PEOPLE? She's done it every time I've heard her sing the song, and it's one of those singer ticks that drives me up a wall. I bet Sondheim would have given a note on it were he still alive, despite his ambivalence towards GYPSY. (She sounds mostly great on the other songs, though.)
I hate the new dance arrangement for "All I Need Is The Girl" and the guy playing Tulsa doesn't help my enjoyment.
I know they intentionally hired a jazz guy for the Trumpet 1 part, but his playing style almost makes him sound flat when trying to blend with the other brass.
So many odd choices for this production by people who should know better. Maybe it's a cilantro revival...some will love, some will hate, some will be indifferent.
Updated On: 4/25/25 at 05:37 PM