Dark Horse's 'Gypsy' has plenty to sing about

"GYPSY," through July 31, Egyptian Theatre, www.parkcityshows.com, running time: 2 hours, 40 minutes (one intermission)

PARK CITY — In the world of stage mothers, the top honor almost always goes to Mama Rose — the maniacally driven, highly focused, emotionally abandoned, ultimate opportunist and lead character in the classic musical "Gypsy."

Based loosely on the memoir of legendary burlesque star Gypsy Rose Lee, "Gypsy" is about Mama, who relentlessly pushed her two young daughters to live out HER dream of stardom until one up and leaves and the other … well, the other finally lives the dream — but as a stripper.

As part of the Egyptian Theatre's Musicals on Main series, Dark Horse Company Theatre just opened its production of the Arthur Laurents, Jule Styne and Stephen Sondheim musical, which features some of theater's most iconic songs: "Let Me Entertain You," "Together Wherever We Go" and "Everything's Coming Up Roses."

Directed by Tracy Callahan, The Dark Horse production has plenty to sing about.

For the most part, the casting works well. Teresa Sanderson takes on the marathon role of Mama, described by many as "one of the truly complex characters in musical theater." Sanderson handles the meaty role well, shining especially in Mama's angrier, driven moments (her confrontation with Gypsy toward the end of the show and "Rose's Turn" are standouts).

The catch is, at times, it felt Mama was always just angry and bitter, making it difficult to figure out why sweet Herbie blindly followed her through the years. It would be nice to see a bit more playfulness or sweetness at times. Mama is a fighter and a survivor, but she's also vulnerable. That side to her felt overshadowed.

In a very nice turn as Herbie, Jonathan McBride brings a natural sweetness to the kind-hearted man who takes Rose and kids under his wing. And one wishes Herbie had more solos to let McBride sing.

However, the age difference between Mama and Herbie brings a strange dynamic to both their relationship as well as his sweet relationship with Louise, aka Gypsy.

"Together Wherever We Go" is a highlight, showing a wonderful warmth between the threesome.

Lauren Noll's Louise-turned-Gypsy is very well done. From a gawkish tomboy to a confident burlesque star, Noll was very believable — being nervous, strong and coquettish.

Elise Groves is delightful as June, and Rebecca Joy Raboy, Karli Lowry and Lisa Grow are scene-stealers.