The original Mama Rose in the iconic Broadway musical Gypsy was Ethel Merman. Her powerful performance defined the role and set a legendary standard for all who followed.
The Legendary Performance of Ethel Merman
Gypsy, which premiered on Broadway in 1959, is a biographical musical based loosely on the life of burlesque performer Gypsy Rose Lee and her overbearing stage mother, Rose Hovick. The role of Mama Rose is one of the most demanding and coveted in musical theatre history, requiring immense vocal power, dramatic range, and stage presence.
Ethel Merman, often hailed as the "Queen of Broadway," was the definitive choice for the part. Known for her brassy voice and larger-than-life personality, she brought an unforgettable intensity to Mama Rose, embodying the character's relentless ambition, unwavering determination, and ultimate vulnerability. Her performance earned her widespread critical acclaim and solidified her status as a theatrical legend.
Merman's portrayal of Mama Rose became so synonymous with the character that when the film adaptation of Gypsy was being cast, there was significant anticipation about who would take on the role. It is a well-known anecdote that Merman herself was fiercely protective of the character she had originated on stage. She was reportedly quite displeased when the film role ultimately went to Rosalind Russell, not Merman. In a display of her legendary assertiveness, it's said that Merman even managed to obtain a copy of Russell's singing demo tape that had been submitted to Warner Bros. for consideration.
Key Figures in Gypsy's Original Production
Gypsy boasts a stellar creative team that contributed to its enduring legacy:
- Music: Jule Styne
- Lyrics: Stephen Sondheim
- Book: Arthur Laurents
- Director and Choreographer: Jerome Robbins
Mama Rose: Broadway vs. Film
While Ethel Merman originated the role on Broadway, the film adaptation saw a different star step into Mama Rose's formidable shoes.
| Aspect | Original Broadway Production (1959) | Original Film Adaptation (1962) |
|---|---|---|
| Mama Rose Actress | Ethel Merman | Rosalind Russell |
| Significance | Defined the character and set the standard for future portrayals | Introduced the story to a wider cinematic audience |
| Impact on Actress | Cemented Merman's status as a Broadway legend | Russell received a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy nomination |
The Enduring Legacy of Mama Rose
The role of Mama Rose continues to be a benchmark for actresses in musical theatre. Over the decades, many acclaimed performers have tackled the part, each bringing their unique interpretation to the complex character. Some notable actresses who have played Mama Rose include:
- Angela Lansbury
- Tyne Daly
- Bernadette Peters
- Patti LuPone
- Imelda Staunton
- Bette Midler
Ethel Merman's original performance, however, remains the touchstone, a powerful and unforgettable portrayal that etched Mama Rose into the pantheon of theatrical legends.
