The musical, directed by Academy Award winner Sam Mendes, began previews at the Shubert Theatre April 16, 2003, prior to an official opening May 1. On April 18 at 7 PM ET, the three Gypsy strippers — Kate Buddeke (Mazeppa), Heather Lee (Tessie Tura) and Gayton Scott (Electra) — will participate in the first live on-line chat on the official Gypsy website. Two-hundred fans will be able to chat live with the three actresses; those interested must pre-register before the chat by going to the Gypsy website at www.gypsythemusical.com.

Gypsy also welcomed its newest cast member April 13. The week-old Lotus replaced Cherry Blossom as the 18th lamb to be part of the musical revival.

Gypsy — written by Arthur Laurents, Jule Styne and Stephen Sondheim — received four 2003 Tony Award nominations, including those for star Peters (Best Actress in a Musical), co stars John Dossett and Tammy Blanchard (Best Featured Actor/Actress in a Musical) and Best Revival of a Musical. The cast recording of the musical — Angel Records — recently won a Grammy for Best Musical Show Album.

Peters is joined onstage by Emmy winner Tammy Blanchard (Louise), John Dossett (Herbie), Kate Reinders (Dainty June), David Burtka (Tulsa), Heather Tepe (Baby June), Addison Timlin (Baby Louise), Heather Lee (Tessie Tura), Gayton Scott (Miss Cratchit/Electra), Kate Buddeke (Mazeppa), Brooks Ashmanskas (Mr. Goldstone/Pastey), Michael McCormick (Uncle Jocko/Cigar) and William Parry (Pop/Mr. Kringelein).

Gypsy plays Tuesday through Saturdays at 8 PM with matinees on Wednesday and Saturdays at 2 PM and Sundays at 3 PM. Tickets, priced between $60 and $100, are available at the Shubert Theatre box office (225 West 44th Street).