The Gallery Players Celebrate 50 in Brooklyn with GYPSY!

October 7, 2016 by Dominique M. Carson

devon-hatch-james-david-dirck-chris-gillette-pam-zazzarino-adam-fontana-richard-lisenby-and-sean-dearing-photo-by-bella-muccari

The Gallery Players perform Gypsy / photo by Bella Muccari / courtesy of The Gallery Players

The Gallery Players, an elite theatrical institution in Brooklyn, celebrated their 50th season by presenting the legendary musical, Gypsy . Brooklyn natives were given an opportunity to see previews in September, with performances that conclude on October 9th, 2016.

Because of its’ iconic status, theater lovers were eager to see this musical , which depicts an overbearing stage mother who is trying to live out her dreams in the arts through her two daughters.

Rose, the mother of Lady June and Louise, also known as “Gypsy Rose Lee” , explained to her children the “hair-raising” realities of show business at a young age. They learned about earning respect as an actress, making ends meets, compromising your values for a quick buck and separating business and personal relationships.

Elizaebeth Nestlerode as GYPSY / photo by Bella Muccari / courtesy of The Gallery Players

The musical also featured some of the most popular songs from the original play such as “Everything’s Coming Up Roses”, “Together (Wherever We Go)”, “Some People”, “Let Me Entertain You” and the finale, “Rose’s Turn.”

Victoria Bundonis and Dave Konig/ photo by Bella Muccari / courtesy of The Gallery Players

Overall, the musical expressed several positive subliminal messages for day-to-day living such as self-confidence, overcoming rejection, knowing your worth and making peace with your past digressions.

Five decades later, The Gallery Players still showcase new talent and produce a wide-range of plays and musicals. They earned their reputation as “New York’s Kept Secret,” because of their ongoing mission to bring inexpensive and enjoyable theater to Brooklyn.

Artists on our Radar

Jessi Robertson: A Voice for the Vulnerable

Jessi Robertson-Memory and Abandoned Parts Album Art

Jessi Robertson is a powerhouse voice that captivates you from the first note. In a world where music is often a safe place for personal expression, she stands out as a compelling voice for the vulnerable. With her vivid lyrics and haunting melodies, her over 15-year career as a musician has carved a way for herself in the folk and Americana music scene, captivating audiences with her raw honesty and emotional depth. Born in a small town in upstate New York, Robertson’s journey into music began at an early age. Robertson moved to Brooklyn in 2003, as she honed her craft, recognizing its ability to speak directly to the human experience with authenticity and sincerity. Once in BK, she released her debut album, “Small Town Girls,” in 2010, which gained much traction for its lyrics and soul-stirring melodies. Following this came her 2014 release “I Came From The War.” Throughout her career, Robertson has fearlessly tackled themes ranging from love and loss to social justice and mental health. Her most recent release, “Memory and Abandoned Parts (15-Year Anniversary Edition of Who We Are, What We Have Done)” is a re-release of her original 2008 album. She continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, as the release explores the complexities of the human condition. Robertson’s impact extends beyond the recording studio. Recognizing the power of music to effect change, she uses her platform to advocate for issues close to her heart. Whether performing at charity events or speaking out on social media, Robertson is committed to using her art as a force for good. Through her music, Robertson invites listeners to confront the complexities of the human experience with empathy and compassion, reminding us of the power of art to bridge divides and inspire change. As she continues to evolve as an artist and an advocate, one thing remains certain: Jessi Robertson’s voice will echo in the hearts and minds of listeners for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.

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