Montego Glover Reflects on Her Role in Broadway’s ‘Gypsy’

Tony-nominated actress Montego Glover has shared her insights into her recent experience starring in the Broadway revival of Gypsy. Glover stepped into the iconic role of Mama Rose during the absences of Audra McDonald and for select performances, offering a unique perspective on the role that has captivated audiences since its original debut.

In an interview, Glover described her time performing in Gypsy as “exhilarating,” noting it was a “once in a lifetime feeling.” She expressed a deep appreciation for the character of Mama Rose, highlighting her complexity. “I loved her complexity. She is witty, wise, ballsy, damaged, beautiful, tough, misguided, naive, and smart,” Glover explained. This multifaceted portrayal allowed Glover to explore various dimensions of the character, contributing to her overall enjoyment of the role.

Looking ahead, Glover shared her intentions for the future, stating, “Work as always: the theatre, continued work in TV & film, voice-over in animation, narration, gaming, commercials. Maybe a concert or two. And a bit of downtime too.” She emphasized the vibrant opportunities that New York City offers for artists seeking both professional and personal relaxation.

Glover’s accolades include winning the Drama Desk Award for “Outstanding Actress in a Musical” for her performance in Memphis in 2010, and she was also nominated for a Tony Award for “Best Actress in a Musical” for the same role. Reflecting on these honors, she remarked, “I’m incredibly honored. Being recognized for my work in this way is the kind of gift that lasts your whole life. I treasure that.”

The fast-paced nature of the digital age presents both challenges and opportunities for artists, according to Glover. She stated, “It feels fast! So much of the work of an artist moves very quickly now.” Balancing the rapid pace with the traditional concept of artistic process is her daily goal. “Those (sometimes long) stretches of time that are very necessary to making art…honoring and practicing that,” she added.

For aspiring actors, Glover’s advice varies by age, but centers on persistence and enjoyment. “Keep trying and keep going. Enjoy yourself. Read, read, read: novels, plays, short stories, and poetry,” she advised. She also emphasized the importance of experiencing different forms of art: “You can’t make art unless you actually experience it and support it.”

When defining success, Glover elaborated on her perspective: “Success, to me, means confidence in my work, my work ethic, and my abilities. Also, being well-known and respected in my field for the work that I do.”

To her fans, Glover expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “Thank you for supporting me in so many wonderful, surprising ways and in every single place I’ve ever performed. Thank you for supporting art and artists. Thank you.”

For updates and insights from Montego Glover, follow her on social media platforms such as Instagram. Her journey in the arts continues to inspire many, reflecting the resilience and creativity that characterize the performing arts community.