‘Catalyst Sessions’ recap: Becca McCoy

In TheatreZone’s “Gypsy” (the correct photo!)

The role of Mama Rose in Gypsy, one of those legendary, loud and lived-in ‘50s stage musicals, is right there on the dream list for any musical theater actress. It’s demanding and it’s difficult, but it pays big dividends.

St. Petersburg’s Becca McCoy, no surprise, was up to the challenge, and nailed the part squarely to the scenery during a 10-show run at a professional theater in Naples last month.

It was supposed to be 12 shows. Then, the Covid-19 era began. And you know the rest.

McCoy was able to leave Naples for her parents’ home in St. Pete; she herself lives in Chicago these days, but for the time being, she’s back in the ol’ hometown, waiting to see what happens next.

Monday on The Catalyst Sessions, the veteran performer talked about many of her favorite bay area shows – including Mamma Mia!, the 2019 American Stage musical in Demens Landing Park. McCoy (as Rosie) and her castmates played to more than 20,000 people.

She had previously starred as The Lady of the Lake in a park production of Spamalot, during American Stage’s 2015-2016 season.

“There’s no cap to the set. The very environs around you are part of the world you are performing in. You hear your own voice bouncing off of the buildings on Beach Drive. It’s otherworldly. I can never get enough of being in the park. I think the park show is magic.”

McCoy also discussed her love of musical theater, and how it began, and her immediate future – like all working actors, it’s uncertain.

Stick around and watch the video all the way through – there’s a sweet surprise at the end.