A Broadway Star's Plea for Respect and Privacy
Audra McDonald, a celebrated Broadway star, has taken to social media to address an unsettling fan encounter that has left her feeling uneasy. In a post shared on Instagram, she urged fans to respect the boundaries of performers, especially after a show.
McDonald, known for her role as Mama Rose in the acclaimed production of Gypsy, is set to close her run at the Majestic Theatre. However, an incident that occurred following her performance on Friday has prompted her to speak out. She described how a theatergoer "snuck around and found me the way I had exited from the theater" and followed her all the way home. The individual entered the building and was "uncomfortably close," which led McDonald to involve security.
The incident crossed a significant boundary, according to McDonald. She emphasized that when actors leave the stage door without stopping, it is often due to exhaustion or the need to conserve energy for upcoming performances. "There's a reason that they're not stopping. It has nothing to do with you. It's them protecting their space and peace," she explained.
Understanding Performers' Needs
McDonald acknowledged that while some performers may choose to greet fans after a show, there are many reasons why others might not. She mentioned that health, vocal care, and the need to rest are common factors. "After a show sometimes we're just exhausted, and it's hard," she said. "There are a million reasons why a performer might not exit through the stage door."
Despite her efforts to maintain a connection with fans, McDonald admitted that she hasn't been doing the stage door at Gypsy for a variety of reasons. "The main ones have been because of health, and exhaustion, and vocal health, and trying to conserve as little energy I have, vocal energy, so that I can get through the next show, and the next show, and the next show."
A Message to Fans
In her post, McDonald addressed her nearly 300,000 followers, urging them to respect the proper boundaries. "When you see an actor leave the stage door, if they don't stop, leave them alone," she said. "That is crossing a big old boundary, and I just want to call that out. That's a big no-no. That's now messing with my safety, and it's not right."
Her plea highlights the importance of respecting the personal space of performers, who often work long hours and need time to recover. McDonald’s message serves as a reminder that while fans may be eager to meet their favorite stars, it is essential to recognize and honor their needs.
A Legacy of Excellence
Gypsy, the musical that has brought McDonald to the spotlight, has a rich history on Broadway. Originally staged in 1960 with Ethel Merman in the lead role, the production features lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, music by Jule Styne, and a book by Arthur Laurents. The story loosely adapts the memoirs of famed burlesque entertainer Gypsy Rose Lee, who faced challenges with her domineering stage mother, Rose, during her childhood.
Throughout its history, Gypsy has been a reliable hit, with notable performers such as Angela Lansbury, Tyne Daly, Patti LuPone, Bernadette Peters, and Merman having portrayed the role of Mama Rose. Each of these actresses has contributed to the legacy of the musical, with several winning Tony Awards for their performances.
McDonald, who has six Tony Awards to her name, holds the record for the most awarded and most nominated performer in Tony history. Her latest role in Gypsy adds to her impressive list of achievements, further solidifying her status as a Broadway legend.
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