MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) –
Meridian Little Theatre is set to present the classic musical Gypsy, bringing a large-scale production and a well-known Broadway story to local audiences.
The show, originally debuting in 1959, is widely regarded as one of the greatest American musicals. Based on the memoirs of burlesque performer Gypsy Rose Lee, the story follows stage mother Rose Hovick as she pushes her daughters through the declining vaudeville circuit, eventually guiding her shy daughter Louise into stardom.
Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. April 23 through April 25, with a 2 p.m. matinee on April 26 at Meridian Little Theatre.
Director Hunter Dungan said the production stands out for its size and familiarity.
“The production is big. The cast is big. The songs are going to be songs that people recognize,” Dungan said.
Months of preparation have gone into the show, from building the set to rehearsing musical numbers and coordinating technical elements.
“Watching all of these moving parts just come to life here at the very end is what I’m most looking forward to,” Dungan said.
Rachel Kate Thaggard, who plays Louise, said her role highlights the character’s transformation over time.
“Earlier in the show, I am Louise, so it’s the younger version of what then becomes Gypsy Rose Lee,” Thaggard said. “It’s showing her progression from young girl to later star.”
The role also comes with technical challenges, including multiple quick costume changes.
“I’m at about 10 costumes,” she said. “I go through about five in the span of three minutes.”
Thaggard, a Meridian native and Mississippi State University theater student, said performing at Meridian Little Theatre carries personal meaning.
“It’s a community theatre — you know everybody,” she said. “Every time you do a show here, it’s kind of like being with a second family.”
Dungan, who was born and raised in Meridian and now teaches at Lamar School, echoed that sentiment, saying the theatre offers a place for people of all backgrounds.
“No matter what your skill set is, I promise there’s something that you can bring to the stage,” he said. “After work, after school, no matter what it is, you have a home here.”
Organizers say the production not only showcases local talent but also reflects the collaborative effort behind community theatre.
“I think everyone needs to come see Gypsy,” Thaggard said. “It’s such a great example of what our community can bring to the table.”
Tickets and additional information are available at meridianlittletheatre.com.
