Georgie: My Adventures with George Rose
The NYC premiere of Ed Dixon's solo show about his 20-year friendship with two-time Tony-winning character actor George Rose.
... Read moreOver his storied career, Mr. Rose starred on Broadway and in London alongside such stars as Katharine Hepburn, Noel Coward, Richard Burton, and Laurence Olivier. He was last seen on Broadway in the original 1985 production of 'The Mystery of Edwin Drood,' for which he won his second Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical. Ed Dixon examines his longtime friendship with the character actor, their shared love for the stage, and Rose's shocking dark side.
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- 1 hour and 30 minutes
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- The Davenport Theatre / The Loft (Midtown W)
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Reviews (184)
27 Critics' Reviews
"A charming if ultimately disturbing solo show…Dixon delivers enjoyable impersonations of Katharine Hepburn, Noël Coward and Richard Burton—not to mention Rose himself....The tone of ‘Georgie’ turns somber near the end, when Mr. Dixon accepts an invitation to Rose’s vacation home in the Dominican Republic...The visit ends with a disillusioned Mr. Dixon fleeing in disgust. The audience is caught out as well; after finding joy in Rose’s brilliance, we’re left confused and disillusioned, too." Full Review
"Genial and orotund, Dixon provides marvelous accounts of Rose’s special qualities as a performer as well as his droll idiosyncrasies as a person...The show takes a sharp and very dark turn in its final third, however, and that’s where it loses its balance...This is the show’s dramatic turning point; it triggers Dixon’s disenchantment with Rose and a deep personal spiral. But it is also untrue...A distortion of such magnitude is ethically dodgy, and it undermines the rest of Dixon’s show." Full Review
"Fascinating new solo show...'Georgie' is less a traditional play than a juicy evening of theater stories, but Dixon brings his pal to life with such vividness that it's almost as if Rose is actually onstage next to him...Director Eric Schaeffer guides this multifaceted performance into a beautifully appropriate balance of lightness and darkness...'Georgie' is a tribute to one of Broadway's greats, while reminding us that everyone we see onstage has a story all their own." Full Review
"What makes 'Georgie' a remarkable theatre piece...is Dixon’s portrayal of his own shock and dismay as he discovers the true Georgie...Schaeffer, who originated the play at his Signature Theatre in Arlington VA, repeats his direction and does a capital job of it...The combination of the stories, the characters, and Dixon’s own persona make 'Georgie' an evening of charm and delight. That is, until the shattering and brutal truth comes blustering in, as it must." Full Review
"It is loaded with classic theatre stories, calculated to leave Broadway fans chortling with glee; in fact, it's just about the funniest horror story around...Dixon is a superb raconteur...Eric Schaeffer, whose direction keeps the show moving at exactly the right pace, also designed the set, a haunted-looking old theatre...'Georgie' will, inevitably, appeal most strongly to theatre fans with a deep sense of history, as well as those who saw Rose perform." Full Review
"Dixon regales us with stories of Rose's personal oddities and theatrical performances, frequently lapsing into impressions of the actor...There's plenty to enjoy in 'Georgie' even if you don't know who Rose was. The real beneficiaries...will be older Broadway theatregoers to whom Rose's artistry brought joy and laughter from the '60s through the '80s. This Rose by another name may not smell as sweet as the original but for most audiences it should certainly smell sweet enough. Full Review
"Compact, sentimental and neatly crafted one-man show...Dixon expertly recreates Rose’s distinctive voice, larger-than-life mannerisms, off-the-color remarks and detailed anecdotes about working with legends like Noel Coward, Laurence Olivier, Richard Burton and Katharine Hepburn. Under the direction of Eric Schaeffer, 'Georgie' works as an intimate personal journey that takes a swift turn from giddy and nostalgic to disturbing and tragic." Full Review
“A tour-de-force performance…Not only does Mr. Dixon unearth the stories and truths behind the man, but he reveals truths about himself as well...Dixon embodies Rose layer after layer. We see his humor, eccentricities, complexity and a life veiled in a dark secret that is now exposed…Dixon is a master storyteller and writer who keeps our attention to the fullest…’Georgie’ is a delightful biopic that will let you know that everyone is flawed, scared and just this side of off." Full Review
"With his resonant voice and animated presence, Dixon vibrantly holds forth with a series of shrewdly connected, comical and poignant behind-the-scenes theatrical anecdotes...What truly distinguishes the show is Dixon’s fearless psychological focus...In examining their involvement, Dixon doesn’t spare Rose or himself from honest scrutiny...Schaeffer’s inspired staging includes a number of arresting tableaux, bursts of action and Dixon’s perfectly modulated performance." Full Review
"Dixon is quite the raconteur whose stories begin quite literally at the hilarious first meeting with Rose and end on a very unfortunate note...What makes the first three quarters of the show so deliriously funny is Dixon’s ability to replicate not only Rose’s voice but all his effete mannerisms...Rose’s secret life and death had more of a profound affect on Dixon than he could ever imagine...Yet, he got himself together which enabled him to play many roles." Full Review
"It’s an illuminating, warts-and-all portrait of the talented artist that became Dixon’s idol, then fell from a great height with dire consequences to both men – as told, it should be noted, with love. The playwright is a terrific storyteller...Joy and surprise are infectious. Flamboyance is never quite over the top. Moving around the stage with grace, energy and precise gesture, he’s a pleasure to watch...Dixon is simply wonderful. As is this play which is both entertaining and heart-rending." Full Review
"Dixon’s writing is very entertaining; there are no passages that are too precious for Dixon and therefore lose value for us...Dixon still has serious chops. The story moves along and we giggle, laugh outright and feel a bit verklempt...It’s an over-used cliche to say a performer is brave, raw, fearless, but maybe we over-use these words because we want that experience so much. Dixon really delivers...This show is a must see. Do not miss it." Full Review
"Ed Dixon has a delightful demeanor, often delivering a line with an implied wink...Directed by Eric Schaeffer, Dixon tries to keep the homage lively, moving about and pouring his heart and his talent into evoking Rose while spinning narratives...Dixon covers Rose’s life with flair and fine-tuned recollections...Dixon succeeded admirably in bonding with his audience, but his 'Georgie,' while entertaining, moving and glowing with expertise, could still stand some tightening." Full Review
"Dixon's ability to catch the essence of the celebrated artists who populate his play is uncanny, and I recommend this lovely piece of work to all who have love for the theatre and for the artists who consistently enrich our lives. George Rose was one of those, and Ed Dixon has brought him back to us with a good ear and the mastery of a craft he’s been honing for over 40 years." Full Review
"In a remarkable one-man play, 'Georgie: My Adventures with George Rose,' actor/writer Ed Dixon does a brilliant job of talking about his friendship with the 'unabashed homosexual' Rose...Dixon is priceless as he acts out Rose’s assessments of people...Dixon holds you in his thrall for the entire 90 minutes and proves not only a great interpreter of Rose’s life and work, but a worthy successor to his stage presence. Oh, what a relief!" Full Review
"A first-class ticket on a theatrical time machine ride. We get to sit at the feet of a great storyteller getting punch drunk on theatre memories. Brilliant text, astounding performance, astute direction–unforgettable evening...Ed Dixon is a theatrical chameleon, shape-shifting into any part...Eric Schaeffer is the director of this beautiful opus constructed of micro memoir moments. He ensures an electric pace so nothing is overly sentimental or too light." Full Review
"Dixon's animated remembrances of his friendship with the extravagantly theatrical Rose form a loving portrait reaching peaks of hilarity and a depth of darkness...A fascinating storyteller, Dixon draws on his own acting experience, personal charm and obvious affection for the eccentric actor to share his encyclopedic collection of anecdotes...You are entranced, shocked, sympathetic and ultimately gratified by a riveting, well-formed arc. Dixon's performance captivates from start to finish." Full Review
"A bold, compelling story...It’s hard for actors to dig deep in painful, traumatic terrain and unearth inner demons for public performance but Mr. Dixon so beautifully allows how, in his friend’s death, he found renewed life. Mr. Dixon is so damned appealing and just plain likable, I yearned for more of his own story...A little marvel: a bare-knuckle but bittersweet tribute to a legendary actor, a love letter to theater life, and a touching, probing contemplation of self-reconciliation." Full Review
"He simply tells of the 15 years that he knew the distinguished performer, first as a castmate and eventually as a bosom buddy...Dixon knows how to get us to laugh when detailing his own theatrical forays...We all have our dark sides, but Rose’s was particularly murky and you’ll undoubtedly find yourself seeing why Dixon wanted to make a speedy exit. Most of 'Georgie,' however, is great fun – especially for theater enthusiasts who, like Dixon, can’t get enough backstage lore." Full Review
"“Ed Dixon is brilliant–as an actor, author and raconteur. This solo show is riveting, riotous and revealing…The anecdotes, enchantingly recounted, are hilarious…In the end it’s anything but hagiography...'Georgie' is a must-see for acting aficionados, would-be memoirists, psychologists, criminologists, theater historians, and just about anybody who wants to spend a fascinating 90 minutes in the theater." Full Review
“The production, directed by Eric Shaffer, is flawless, and the set masterful...I have enjoyed many one-man shows in the past…Dixon rises to the top of this illustrious group but remember, he also wrote the play, a monumental achievement. I have seen a few of Dixon’s previous musicals and plays, and I enjoyed them all. But nothing in his past work gave any indication of what heights he might scale as a writer. 'Georgie' is a masterpiece." Full Review
for a previous production "Alternately hilarious and riveting…Dixon not only acquits himself honorably as the playwright, but also as an actor portraying Rose...It becomes absolutely riveting in its last 20 minutes. Credit the sheer bravery of Dixon as a writer to crack open his sternum and reveal his bare, broken heart to this audience and credit Eric Schaeffer as director for establishing the final shift in tone so dramatically...See the hilarious and riveting Georgie to laugh until you cry and cry until you laugh." Full Review
for a previous production "What starts out as a sweet remembrance of a friend and mentor becomes an attempt to come to terms with the fact that a beloved friend could be capable of unforgivable behavior. The way the show is structured by Dixon and directed by Schaeffer, the audience comes away feeling some of the same moral uncertainty and personal loss as the performer...Dixon's triumph is that he managed to accept the best part of Rose's life, his transcendent talent, and otherwise has moved forward." Full Review
for a previous production "Part biography, part memoir, part eulogy, and part confession. It is, however, every part theatre; theatre about theatre, as it happens...While there is certainly plenty for the ‘civilian’ to enjoy in 'Georgie' there is no doubt that an aficionado of the theatre will find a depth and breadth of references which will delight...Dixon’s performance is superb, and, together with Schaeffer, who also directed the piece, they admirably handle a word-heavy 90 minutes of theatre." Full Review
for a previous production "'Georgie’ is exceptionally fascinating for the account of one human being's jumble of brightness and darkness. Ed Dixon has written and performed a play that is rare, a very personal account of a flawed friend and mentor…It is a mostly delightful story about a great actor and a flawed human being. It will linger with you after the lights go up and you hit the winter chill. I will never forget it!" Full Review
157 Members' Reviews
See it if 70s-80s broadway was your thing & you know George Rose's story. Your heart will melt. Masterful Ed Dixon gifts w/other spot-on impressions.
Don't see it if one-man shows are not your thing and you can't pay attention. This adventurous time-machine journey you're taken on should NOT be missed
See it if you like inside Broadway stories, interested in the life of a great character actor George Rose, like solo shows
Don't see it if you don't like solo shows, want big production values
Also Ed Dixon gives an amazing account of his relationship with character a... Read more Read less
See it if you know who George Rose is or perhaps like myself got to see him work his magic in The Pirates of Penzance. You'll never forget this story
Don't see it if Even if you don't know who George Rose is this is still a tour-de-force and riveting story.
See it if You appreciate good storytelling, are a fan of George Rose or appreciate a masterful performance and raconteur hold forth on his story
Don't see it if You hate one person shows, have little knowledge of theatre history and haven't a clue as to who George Rose was.
See it if I was enraptured by Ed's tale of his mentee relationship with Georgie. The ups, downs, funny stories, what died and what lived on.
Don't see it if You don't enjoy autobiographical solo shows.
Also It felt like Ed left the stage and was standing next to me. I was a pa... Read more Read less
See it if you're interested in George Rose and enjoy one man shows.
Don't see it if you expect a play that's laugh out funny.
See it if you want a true theater experience and to learn the deep, dark secrets of a Broadway legend. Ed Dixon is a masterful story teller.
Don't see it if you don't like one-man shows.
See it if If you know about George Rose or are interested in a personal story about a Broadway character actor.
Don't see it if you do not like one man shows or do not handle disturbing twists well.
See it if Ed Dixon was incredible! What a wonderful story teller, he held the audience's attention completely!
Don't see it if If you don't like solo shows and are not interested in theatrical history.
See it if you like one-person shows, were a fan of George Rose, enjoy nostalgic, funny showbiz stories & impersonations of stars from an earlier era.
Don't see it if you don't like one-person shows, have no idea who George Rose was, are put off by a mix of funny stories and sordid revelations.
See it if it begins as a funny and moving exploration of friendship, and then it turns dark with shocking revelations about George Rose.Great acting!
Don't see it if you don't like solo shows.
Also Ed Dixon is a great storyteller. His performance was lively, evocative... Read more Read less
See it if You'd enjoy excellent storytelling and impersonations so vivid and precise that you can totally visualize every word that is spoken.
Don't see it if Do not like to listen, one-person performances (although that is soon forgotten), or only want a musical, busy staging, or lots of glitz.
See it if You want to know more about George Rose for better or worse. You enjoy stories about theater and actors.
Don't see it if You don't like one-person plays.
See it if You are interested in shows about Broadway, acting, George Rose,Ed Dixon, you like one man shows
Don't see it if You want to see a happy show.This has a disturbing ending
See it if you want to see & hear great story telling about a great character actor of the NY stage. Dixon's impersonations of other actors is great.
Don't see it if if you are not a theater buff especially under the age of 40. You will probably not know any of the greats during George Rose's life.
See it if you want to watch a well-acted one-man show telling an intriguing story about George Rose.
Don't see it if you need bells and whistles, don't like sitting in VERY close quarters, or do not like autobiographical theater.
See it if you are a fan of one man shows and are interested in theatre history
Don't see it if you are looking for a light comedy
See it if You are a fan of or know George Rose or are a theater buff.
Don't see it if You are looking for something with depth, or to be entertained or feel something. It's not that interesting a story, until the end.
Also While I find it very sweet that one friend wrote and stars in a show a... Read more Read less
See it if you like backstage biographies, have acquaintance w George Rose (or not?), like to be surprised/shocked, appreciate psychological complexity
Don't see it if you don't like theatrical storytelling, don't have a sense of humor, don't like impersonation, can't appreciate the shadow side of genius.
See it if you like superior character acting, an interesting absorbing story with a twist ending (if, like me,you don't know the history beforehand)
Don't see it if you don't care about one-person shows, theater history or LGBT stories.
See it if you are familiar with George Rose and want to hear about his life. I recommend sticking around for the last 30 minutes, was more interesting
Don't see it if you are not interested in a one man show about someone who had a very large influence in his life. Adult Subject matter.
Also Was great acting, but I didn't relate to the material, so it was kind ... Read more Read less
See it if you like one-man shows about famous Broadway actors. The show is a little fluffy in the beginning, but gains riveting intensity by the end.
Don't see it if you want a big, extravaganza of a show with a happy ending.
See it if You enjoy entertaining storytelling in a one man show. However, the play goes much deeper than than just stories. Ed Dixon is a marvel.
Don't see it if You like bigger productions or you aren't interested in older theater productions.
See it if you like one man shows. This one is beautifully acted and personal. It starts light, but moves to a dark place. Good, but be aware.
Don't see it if if you want something purely light and fluffy. I wouldn't recommend this for a date night or children.