The recent announcement that Audra McDonald will be starring as Mama Rose in “Gypsy” has thrilled Broadway fans. I’m as delighted as anyone, and eager to catch the show when it opens in December. McDonald is the queen of American musical theater, and “Gypsy” is often considered the best musical ever (and if there were no “Follies,” it would be!). In the roles of Mama Rose’s two daughters, June and Louise, the show’s producers intend to cast actresses who, like McDonald, are Black. In other words, Rose isn’t just being played by a Black actress.

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Persons: Audra McDonald, Mama Rose, ”, I’m, McDonald, Mama Rose’s, Louise, Rose, Rose’s, Rose isn’t, Bert Williams, Ethel Waters, Shirley Temple Organizations: Broadway Locations: America, Shirley