Tony winner Danny Burstein chatted about starring as Herbie in the new production of “Gypsy” on Broadway.
Colin Powell once said: “A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” This quote applies to Danny Burstein.
Background on ‘Gypsy’
Burstein is playing the role of Herbie opposite six-time Tony winner Audra McDonald, who is playing the female lead “Mama Rose” in the show.
The show is directed by six-time Tony Award-winning director George C. Wolfe. The show is suggested by the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee.
The musical features a book by Tony Award winner Arthur Laurents, music by Tony and Academy Award winner Jule Styne, and lyrics by Tony, Grammy, Academy Award and Pulitzer Prize winner Stephen Sondheim.
“Gypsy” is choreography by four-time Tony nominee Camille A. Brown.
Playing Herbie in ‘Gypsy’
On playing Herbie, he said, “It feels wonderful. I love the role; I’ve always loved the role, and it is especially wonderful to be playing it opposite Audra McDonald.”
Working with the cast of actors
On working with the cast, which includes Joy Woods, Jordan Tyson and many other talented actors, he said, “This is the greatest cast I’ve ever worked with. There is not a bad apple in the bunch; it really is the best cast. It is so fun to go to work each day.”
“The people I really love in this show are the kids; they are fantastic. I want to hug each and every one of their parents,” he added.
Lessons learned from this musical
On the lessons learned from this role and show, he reflected, “It taught me patience and kindness.”
Advice for young and emerging actors
For young and aspiring actors, he encouraged them “to have patience with themselves” and “most of all, to listen and learn.”
Success
Regarding his definition of the word success, Burstein said, “Success means that I am still here.”
“Success is longevity,” he noted. “It has nothing to do with fame, which is meaningless. Success is about continuing to follow one’s dream.”
Stage of his life
On the title of the current chapter of his life, Burstein revealed, “What happens next?”
Burstein on Queens College
Burstein spoke about how his alma mater, Queens College, shaped and molded him into who he is today. “I’ve never known life without Queens College,” he admitted.
In June of 2022, Burstein delivered the Commencement Address, and was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Fine Arts from Queens College.
Danny Burstein is the son of Queens College Philosophy Professor Harvey Burstein. “My dad, philosophy professor Harvey Burstein, was always there, and I love him,” he underscored.
“I loved my time at Queens College because it introduced me to my mentor, Edward Greenberg, who was a teacher in the Drama and Theatre Department. He gave me my Equity card when I was 19 years old,” Burstein explained.
Burstein started working professionally while still at Queens College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama before completing an MFA in acting at the University of California, San Diego, in 1990.
Best advice he has ever been given
On the best advice that he has ever been given, Burstein shared, “Listen… that’s the most important part of acting.”
Closing thoughts on ‘Gypsy’
For fans and viewers, he stated about “Gypsy,” “I want fans to look at their own lives and understand Mama Rose in a different way. She is not just ambitious; she is a difficult mother, a complex person, but she’s also an amazing mother too.”
“I want people to understand what it means to follow your dreams, and realize your dreams and not realize your dreams,” Burstein concluded.
Author Roy T. Bennett once said: “Learn to light a candle in the darkest moments of someone’s life. Be the light that helps others see; it is what gives life its deepest significance.”
Danny Burstein embodies this wise quote. His life story and successful stage career is an inspiration to us all.
To learn more about “Gypsy” musical on Broadway, check out its official homepage.
For more information on Danny Burstein, check out his IMDb page.
