Multiracial Gypsy Announces Complete Casting

Connecticut Repertory Theatre has announced complete casting for its upcoming multiracial production of Gypsy, starring Tony and Emmy Award winner Leslie Uggams as Mama Rose.

Joining Uggams in the company will be Michael James Leslie (Little Shop of Horrors) as Pop, Scott Ripley (The Drowsy Chaperone) as Herbie, Alanna Saunders (A Chorus Line) as June, Amandina Altomare (A Chorus Line) as Louise, and Luke Hamilton (A Chorus Line) as Tulsa. Also featured are Ariana Shore as Tessie Tura, Dale A.J. Rose as Mr. Goldstone/Cigar, and Steve Hayes as Uncle Jocko/Kringelien. Additional cast members include Brandon Beaver, Johnny Brantly III, Thomas Brazzle, Madison Coppola, Kristin Devine, Conor Donnally, Cassandra Dupler, Julia Estrada, Mackenzie Leigh Freidmann, Khetanya Henderson, James Jelkin, Sean Jones, Rebecca Mack, Coles Prince, Maria Sheehan, Kyle Schoeplein, Courtney Schoeplein, Annie Tolis, Gianna Yanelli, and Madison Young.

"We are a university community, and we cast our plays to represent the global community that we serve," said Artistic Director Vincent J. Cardinal, who will helm the production. "Our cast includes Latino, African American, Pacific Islander and Caucasian actors. It is not about the historical accuracy of race in America at that time."

The creative team will also feature scenic design by Tim Brown, costume design by Lisa Loen, lighting design by Greg Purnell, and sound design by Michael Skinner.

With a book by Arthur Laurents, music by Jule Styne, and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, Gypsy is based on the memoirs of the famous striptease artist Gypsy Rose Lee and follows her journey with the ultimate stage mother.

Performances will be held at the Harriet S. Jorgensen Theatre on the campus of the University of Connecticut from July 10-20.

For tickets and more information, click here.