The Broadway Ferret

Image taken from A Chorus Line

Rating: 3 masks out of 5

A Chorus Line is a revival of the original longest running show on Broadway, which ran for almost 15 years.  The current staging at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre has Charlotte d’Amboise as Cassie and Deidre Goodwin as Sheila, a part originated by Kelly Bishop who won a Tony for her performance.

A Chorus Line is not like other musicals.  There’s no huge setpieces, no one character stands out from the rest and the plot itself is basic: dancers audition to be in the chorus of a Broadway show.  Yes, you read it right.  Not the leads, the ensemble of a show.  I must say, it’s a refreshing change of pace from reality shows trying to cast leads into Broadway shows

The only setpiece I noticed in the show was the mirrored wall at the back of the stage.  It changes according to whatever scene is performed.  This is by far the most minimal set I’ve seen for a musical which makes sense since it takes place in a rehearsal room or a studio.

The actors in the ensemble are from different backgrounds but they all have the same dream, to be seen in a Broadway show and have a chance to go beyond being in the ensemble of a musical.  Each person tells a story, which is performed by the other actors, of what led them to where they are and of their dreams for the future.  Sometimes it feels like you’re reading their minds.  I think the songs enhance the show in that each one tells the story of a dancer.  The only words spoken by anyone is when it goes back to the audition scene.

The showstopping number “One”, performed by the entire cast at the end is worth waiting for.  The choreography is entertaining, especially when the mirrored wall is used.  I think it’s ironic that they used a number like “One” in an ensemble show. 

Image taken from A Chorus Line

I don’t love this show, but I like it for its originality and I can certainly relate to having a dream and trying as hard as you can to make it come true.

This show is perfect for anyone with a dream to dance on Broadway because they will be able to see themselves in the dancers on stage.  It’s also good for anyone not into huge musical productions or musicals in general.  And of course, anyone a fan of the original production would love it.

Running time: 2hrs, no intermission