Five-time Barrymore Award winner Mary Martello and two-time Tony award nominee Anthony Heald are currently starring in a fabulous production of Gypsy at The Arden Theatre in Philadelphia. Widely considered one of the greatest American musicals of all time, Gypsy has been dazzling audiences since its inception in 1959. Nearly 60 years later, Gypsy’s narrative and infectious music are as potent as ever.

I’ve seen numerous musicals during my lifetime, starting with Hello, Dolly! at the Forrest Theatre in Philadelphia in 1995, starring Carol Channing. Since then, I’ve seen West Side Story, Man of La Mancha, Wicked, Evita, Carousel, Rocky, and everything in between. However, I hadn’t seen Gypsy until this past week, but I always heard great things about it. The Arden’s production not only met my expectations, it exceeded them. The casting was perfect, especially Martello and Heald, who had a wonderful chemistry on stage, and the musical performances were stirring. It’s easily one of the best musicals I’ve experienced, and I highly recommend that everyone go see it.

Photo by Mark Garvin.

Due to popular demand, The Arden Theatre has announced a one-week extension of Gypsy. So, you now have until June 25, 2017 to see this wonderful production of a Broadway classic. Tickets can be bought online or in-person at The Arden’s box office at 40 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106.