While mother and daughter “Big Edie” and “Little Edie” Beale are, respectively, aunt and cousin to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, it is their personal on-again, off-again mother-daughter relationship that makes the musical Grey Gardens sing. In the 1940s, the Beales were society scions with the most impeccable of pedigrees living in a 28-room East Hampton beachfront cottage known for its extensive magnificent gardens. But big Edie’s brother (Jackie’s father) twisted their trust fund away from them, leaving the two in virtual destitution. With few other choices, the pair lived in the wreck of their once-great house among memories, recriminations and understandable symbiosis. The scandal brought forth the classic Maysles brothers 1975 documentary film, Grey Gardens, which then inspired this Tony Award-winning musical by Doug Wright (book), Scott Frankel (music) and Michael Korie (lyrics). In the inimitable words of Little Edie, “You’re dealing with a staunch character. There’s nothing worse.” In musical theater, there’s nothing better. 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays. Through June 14. Stages Repertory Theatre, 3201 Allen Parkway. For information, call 713-527-0123 or visit www.stagestheatre.com. $30.
Wednesdays-Sundays. Starts: May 15. Continues through June 14, 2009