In my own review of the show, I wrote that McDonald “gives a tour de force performance as Mama Rose in the latest production of Gypsy. (I say ‘latest’ production, as there have been two other iconic productions in recent history—one starring Patti LuPone and the other starring Bernadette Peters. Don’t even think about asking me to choose a favorite.) Not only is it impossible to take your eyes off McDonald’s Rose, but it’s hard not to notice just how much she owns the role, fully making it her own.”
“Yes, the show is good. Yes, the performances and the singing and the dancing and the staging are solid. But this is McDonald’s Gypsy. By the time ‘Rose’s Turn’ finally arrives, the audience is waiting for it, begging for it. And, man, does she deliver.”
In short, like Meghan, I freaking loved it.