Photo Coverage: 'Gypsy' Gypsy Robe Ceremony
By: Walter McBride Mar. 31, 2008
On Thursday, March 27th 2008 the Broadway Opening Night Gypsy Robe Ceremony for Gypsy took place and cast member Steve Konopelski was given the robe from former recipient, In The Heights star Michael Balderrama The colorful Gypsy Robe, embellished with mementos from Broadway musicals, is presented to the cast member who has the most Broadway chorus credits. The Gypsy Robe is a Broadway event steeped in tradition. Upon opening night of a Broadway musical, the Gypsy Robe recipient must put on the honored garment and run inside a circle three times so each company member can touch the coat. They must also visit each company member's dressing room before the top-of-show call. It is also the recipient's responsibility to decorate a portion of the Gypsy Robe to commemorate their specific show.Gypsy, stars Tony Award winner Patti LuPone. Gypsy reunites LuPone with co-stars Boyd Gaines and Laura Benanti. Directed by multiple Tony Award winner and author of the musical Arthur Laurents, Gypsy began preview performances on Monday, March 3, 2008 and opened on Thursday, March 27, 2008 at Broadway's St. James Theatre (246 West 44 Street).
Photo Credits Walter McBride/Retna
Gypsy Ensemble
Gypsy Ensemble
Arthur Laurents and Harvey Evans
Arthur Laurents and Harvey Evans
Ensemble Chorus Boys
Ensemble Chorus Boys
Michael Balderrama, recipient for 'In The Heights' prepares to give the robe away
Laura Benanti and Michael Balderrama
Laura Benanti and Michael Balderrama
Steve Konopelski and Patti LuPone
Arthur Laurents watches the ceremony
Steve Konopelski warms up the crowd
Laura Benanti and Steve Konopelski after he receives the robe
Steve Konopelski and Patti LuPone
Steve Konopelski and Patti LuPone
Steve Konopelski and Patti LuPone
The crowd cheers on Steve Konopelski
Michael Balderrama and Steve Konopelski
Steve Konopelski and Arthur Laurents
Steve Konopelski and Arthur Laurents
John P. Connolly (Actors Equity Executive Director), Mary Lou Westerfield (AEA), Steve Konopelski and Jean-Paul Richard (2nd VP, AEA)
John P. Connolly (Actors Equity Executive Director),
Steve Konopelski and guests
Steve Konopelski and Tony Yazbeck
Steve Konopelski and Tony Yazbeck
Laura Benanti, Steve Konopelski, Boyd Gaines, Arthur Laurents and Patti LuPone
Laura Benanti, Steve Konopelski, Boyd Gaines, Arthur Laurents and Patti LuPone
Laura Benanti, Steve Konopelski, Boyd Gaines, Arthur Laurents and Patti LuPone
