ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The voice of Ariel in Disney's "The Little Mermaid" takes center stage at Rochester’s OFC Creations Theatre. Jodi Benson starts as Mama Rose in the classic show "Gypsy."

It tells the story of Mama Rose fighting for her daughters’ success on the Vaudeville circuit during the 1920s and '30s. 

The score written by Stephen Sondheim features hits like "Everything's Coming up Roses" and "Let Me Entertain You."

Sharing the stage with Benson, her real-life daughter Delaney. The two play mother and daughter in the show. Benson says the show has helped her see Delaney in a new light. 

“It’s kind of like you’re wearing two hats in a way," said Benson. “Sometimes I have the mom hat on and I’m watching her on stage realizing she’s so incredible and a great storyteller. Then when I’m standing on stage with her, working off her it’s like I’ve got the other hat on. It’s the best of both worlds combined."

The pair first played these roles in 2023 during a production in Florida, having just five days to get in character. This time around, both say it’s been nice having more time with the show. 

“That extra time has allowed me to ask more questions and really develop my character and spend a lot of time with Louise because she is so layered and she brings so much to the table," said Delaney Benson. “I feel like with this process of just having more time I've discovered more ‘Louise-isms.'" 

Benson said she’s excited for fans to see a new side of her in this role. 

“I love getting to experience different aspects of the joys I have being able to tell a story. So, this is a whole new way, mama rose is a complex character," said Benson. 

The show also features Rochester native Tripp Hanson, playing Herbie. Hanson has had a long career on Broadway and also performed alongside Benson on Broadway in the Tony Award-winning musical, “Crazy For You,” over 33 years ago.

"Gypsy" runs through Feb. 16.