In an exciting twist on Broadway, Audra McDonald and Jake Gyllenhaal are stepping into the shoes of iconic villains, redefining how these characters are perceived. The duo recently met before a Friday evening performance, where they shared insights on their roles and the complexities of portraying characters that are often seen as purely evil.
Audra McDonald, a celebrated six-time Tony Award winner, is making history in the revival of Stephen Sondheim’s "Gypsy." She is the first Black actor to take on the legendary role of Mama Rose, previously portrayed by theatrical giants like Angela Lansbury, Patti LuPone, and Ethel Merman. McDonald’s portrayal is not just a milestone in her career but a significant moment in Broadway history, showcasing the importance of diversity in theater.
Jake Gyllenhaal is currently captivating audiences as Iago in Shakespeare’s "Othello," where he shares the stage with Denzel Washington. Gyllenhaal's interpretation of this manipulative character allows for a nuanced performance, highlighting the complexities of Iago beyond mere villainy. “We can’t think of ourselves as monsters,” McDonald tells Gyllenhaal during their conversation, emphasizing the multidimensional nature of their characters.
During their discussion, McDonald and Gyllenhaal delve into the challenges of performing such iconic roles. Gyllenhaal notes that audiences often find villains more entertaining than heroes, adding, “I always feel the audience is complicit in their enjoyment.” This acknowledgment of audience dynamics is crucial for actors looking to connect with their viewers while portraying complex characters.
McDonald reflects on her early experiences with "Gypsy," recalling how she initially never considered the role due to its historical casting. "I never thought that anybody would cast me," she admits. A pivotal moment came when her friend Gavin Creel encouraged her to take on the role, claiming it should be played by a Black woman. Tragically, Creel passed away before rehearsals began, yet his spirit continues to inspire McDonald throughout her journey.
Both actors discuss the pressures that come with taking on such legendary roles. McDonald mentions, "I describe her as a hurricane," highlighting the intense emotional and vocal demands of playing Mama Rose. Gyllenhaal adds that his portrayal of Iago evolves nightly, stating, “Sometimes he’s just brokenhearted,” emphasizing the character's complexity.
Throughout their conversation, both actors reveal how personal experiences influence their performances. McDonald shares a breakthrough moment during "Rose’s Turn," where she connected the song’s emotional depth to her relationship with her daughter, Zoe. "I burst into tears. I was like, ‘She’s leaving me!’" This raw vulnerability adds a layer of authenticity to her performance that resonates deeply with audiences.
Maintaining vocal health is a significant concern for both McDonald and Gyllenhaal. McDonald explains the importance of vocal warm-ups and how plays can be deceptively challenging. “Plays are harder than musicals because we think, ‘Well, I’m just talking,’ and forget to support our voice,” she notes. Gyllenhaal, who experienced vocal strain during previews, highlights the meticulous care required for a sustained performance.
As seasoned performers, both actors have their own theatrical superstitions. Gyllenhaal shares his ritual of tying shoelaces tightly before a performance, while McDonald adheres to classic superstitions such as avoiding whistling backstage. They both admit to experiencing stage fright, with McDonald revealing that it persists even after countless performances.
The conversation also touches on how actors handle unexpected interruptions during performances, like ringing cellphones. McDonald quips about her humorous approach, using a water gun to address distractions, while Gyllenhaal recalls a moment during his monologue play where he was instructed to respond to any interruptions organically. This adaptability showcases the professionalism and creativity required of actors in live theater.
As Audra McDonald and Jake Gyllenhaal continue to explore the depths of their iconic roles on Broadway, they embody a new era of theater that celebrates diversity, complexity, and the human experience. Their commitment to authenticity and emotional truth not only enriches their performances but also sets a powerful example for future generations of actors.
