Christopher Swan Jumps at 'Gypsy' Role

Christopher Swan plays the male lead in Ocean State Theater Company's production of the classic American musical, "Gypsy." The show debuts July 8 and runs until August 2.

Based loosely on the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee, this 1959 show focuses on growing up with an ambitious stage mother, named Rose, during the heyday of vaudeville. Rose dreams of stardom for her two daughters, even at the expense of her own happiness. Swan plays Herbie, Rose's long-suffering suitor and manager for the girls' act.

The songs include "Let Me Entertain You," "Everything's Coming Up Roses," and "Together Wherever We Go."

In "Gypsy," Swan plays Herbie, a traveling candy salesman who falls for Rose, who is being played by Amiee Turner. Turner has also directed several productions at OSTC.

After working professionally for more than two decades, Swan jumped at the chance to be a part of a musical classic.

"When I got the script, I couldn't believe how good it was," Swan told EDGE. "The script is so character-driven, the relationships are so real, there's a lot for an actor to try to overcome."

Swan grew up in Barre, Vermont and acted in high school plays. After a brief stint in the Army, he later attended and graduated from the Boston Conservatory.

Swan received rave reviews for his portrayal as the King in OSTC's production of "The King and I" in 2013. The role remains one of his favorites.

"It's just a beautiful relationship, a beautiful character, and was a beautiful production," Swan noted.

Swan has been friends with Turner and OSTC's Managing Producer Joel Kipper since their days running Theatre By The Sea in Matunuck. Working with Turner has been very rewarding, according to Swan.

"We really feel like we know each other," Swan said. "We have a great comfort level and we're both fans of each other. It's been great to be in the room with her and to watch her tackle this iconic role. I couldn't have asked for a better situation."

"Gypsy" will be presented at Ocean State Theatre from July 8 - August 2. The theatre is located at 1245 Jefferson Boulevard, Warwick, RI. Tickets are $39 for preview performances and $39-$54 for all other performances. Discount rates for groups of 20 or more are available by calling (401) 921-1777 x112. $30 "Rush" tickets are available on a limited basis one hour prior to curtain on the day of the performance. Tickets are on sale at the box office Monday through Friday from 12 noon - 6:00 pm, Saturdays from 12 noon - 4:00 pm, and from 12 noon until curtain time on performance days. Tickets are also available online 24 hours a day at www.OceanStateTheatre.org and via telephone during normal box office hours by calling (401) 921-6800.