Curtain up and light those lights because tonight is opening night of GYPSY on Broadway.

And I’m a lucky Producer.

As I’ve done in the past, I always like to take a moment to document why I make the producing choices I do.  I do it to invite you into my process.  And I do it so I can understand what I’m drawn to myself!  (Sometimes we make subconscious decisions that if we stopped and examined – we might be able to notice a positive trend and then we can SEEK OUT those opportunities!)

That brings me to this GYPSY, which, as I told potential investors, could be one of the greatest theatrical events in recent history.  Period.

That’s what I believe is working on Broadway these days . . . with its inflation-on-steroids costs and ticket prices to boot.  It’s all about creating an event. 

And, boy oh boy, did these Lead Producers create an event. 

Let’s stack up the offer:

• First, it’s Gypsy, arguably one of the greatest musicals ever written.  Every time there’s a production, musical theater avids rush to see it.  (I know, I company managed the Bernadette Peters revival directed by Sam Mendes in 2003).
• Next it’s Audra, arguably one of the greatest musical theater performers ever. 6 Tonys. 
• Then it’s George C. Wolfe, arguably one of the greatest musical and play Directors ever.

You getting the idea?   But let’s not stop there.

• Audra is the first ever black Mama Rose. 
• It’s the first musical to open in the Majestic Theater since Phantom.
• It has Danny Burstein, Joy Woods and more.

And for me, when I’m co-producer, it’s all about those Lead Producers who put this thing together . . . they include my partner on It’s Only A Play, Tom Kirdahy, his partner on Hadestown (a show so expertly produced, she should write a book about it), Mara Isaacs, as well as Kevin Ryan and Dianne Scott Carter.  

Add up all those things – and if you like musicals – you’re putting this on your short list of shows to see.  Because, when you realize everything you’re getting, you say to yourself, “When will this happen again?”

The answer is never.

Which is why I’m producing it.

And why you should go see it.  Get your tickets here.

And break legs to the company tonight!