April 17, 2008
Steven Lieberman Marina del Rey, CA
Mama Rose, as played by the entertaining and very talented Shirley Hatton, reveals the wounded heart under Rose's fierce facade and shows that she's more misguided than mean. Hatton has a huge voice and knows how to belt out a song. Her renditions of showstoppers "Everything's Coming up Roses" and "Rose's Turn" won't disappoint this show's many fans. Megan Moylan, as the younger version of Louise, is a breath of fresh air. Cute child actress Julian Kang wins audiences' hearts as June in her younger years. You couldn't have asked for cuter or more talented children to play those two younger roles. Director Susan Goldman Weisbarth’s staging offers a good balance of spectacle and drama and never drifts too far into camp even when the story moves to the bump-and-grind world of burlesque.
April 6, 2008
Keith T. Long Beach, CA
It's not easy for an actor to step into a role made famous by a legendary name like Ethel Merman, but Shirley Hatton took on the role, made it her own, and carried this show over the top in excellent story telling. Sarah Mahoney brought a lot of heart to character June, and Marla McClure showcased a broad range of very impressive skills in the role of Louise. Drew Fitzsimmons tore the stage apart in an outstanding tap display. Lighting design (not an easy one in this show) was "spot-on." Costuming was professional caliber and tastefully chosen. Unlike most shows where kids painfully over-act, the young'n's in this show had us believing their roles in the story.
It is no wonder word spread and this show sold out every performance. My first time to this theatre and you bet I'll be back for more. Great fun and a nice evening escape from a hectic world.
April 2, 2008
mike m. long beach, ca
in short; i've seen 9 productions of "gypsy", both amateur & pro.the last 10 minutes of this show are the best i've ever seen, worth the price of admission alone!
April 2, 2008
Bob Stevens Marina Del Rey, CA
Don't miss it! That is if you can get tickets. This is community theater at it's BEST.
From Shirley Hatton's amazing Mama Rose....to Schott's Herbie...and McClures sensitive Louise. To the "Gotta Getta Gimmick Girls"....to the amazing supporting cast with Bruce Schroffel's Uncle Jocko, Kringelein and the very sleazy Phil. This production is first rate. Oh,did I forget the wonderful kids in the ensembles.
As enteraining as anything on any stage in LA. Tickets are just about all gone. Heard there is talk about adding a performance on April 12.
March 25, 2008
Melinda Calvert Hermosa Beach, CA
I don't think anyone could have mastered the role of Mama Rose better than Shirley Hatton. She is thrilling to watch and her powerful portrayal as the controlling mother who spends every waking minute of every day and every dollar she can lay her hands on pushing her daughters towards stardom is sensational. Hatton's depiction is also remarkable in its emotional range and delivery, and her singing is spectacular.
Schott gives a warm, likeable character portrayal of the congenial, adoring Herbie.
Drew Fitzsimmons shows his tap dancing expertise with style and simplicity. And, I particularly liked the "You Gotta Get A Gimmick" skit performed by the burlesque ladies.
The play radiates professionalism behind the scenes as well, with first-rate direction by Susan Goldman Weisbarth. The Kentwood Players have put together an exciting production. It is a must-see!
