NEW York City area audiences have been able to see several productions of “Gypsy” in the last number of years, but they haven’t had the opportunity to actually be in one. They now do, thanks to the galvanizing revival starring Patti LuPone being presented by Encores! Summer Stars at City Center.
When this indomitable actress finished her tour de force rendition of “Rose’s Turn,” the audience rose for a spontaneous standing ovation. LuPone acknowledged the applause fully in character as the self-aggrandizing Mama Rose, bowing floridly and in effect incorporating us into her character’s elaborate fantasy.
It is one of many memorable moments in the show, which has been directed by its author, Arthur Laurents. Unlike the usual Encores! productions, it is fully staged, incorporating Jerome Robbins’ original choreography and featuring perfectly respectable if not lavish scenery.
LuPone, as might be imagined, is a powerhouse in the role, singing the hell out of the classic Styne/Sondheim score and giving a portrayal that easily ranks as one of the best Roses ever.
She’s perfectly matched by Boyd Gaines, who delivers a performance of such touching dignity and humor as Herbie that it makes one wish he was eligible to win a fourth Tony Award.
The supporting cast is equally fine, with Laura Benanti a tough and sexy Louise, Leigh Ann Larkin perfect as Dainty June, and Tony Yazbeck wonderfully appealing as the twinkle-toed Tulsa. And Alison Fraser, Nancy Opel and Marilyn Caskey bring down the house as the three strippers with a gimmick.
Not everything works perfectly in the production. LuPone’s Rose is so overpowering that the character of Louise seems overshadowed. And the sequence depicting Benanti’s transformation from nervous neophyte to confident, sexy stripper isn’t as effective as it might be.
But these are quibbles. This is a Mama Rose and a “Gypsy” to be treasured, and deserves to be around far longer than its current three-week run.
GYPSYCity Center, 131 W. 55th St.; (212) 581-1212. Through July 29.