A Chorus Line - Teen Edition

Up until Cats stole the crown in 1997, A Chorus Line (winner of nine Tony Awards) was the longest running show on Broadway clocking up a staggering 6,137 performances. It follows a group of dancers in the mid 70's pursuing their dreams of making it big in a Broadway chorus line. As an audience we are given a glimpse into the audition process and get to know each character personally, see them making sacrifices for their art and searching for validation and acceptance. Interestingly, much of the dialogue and lyric content was formed from taped workshops with Broadway dancers in 1974 (including eight who eventually appeared in the original cast). Knowing the story is based on fact makes it all the more intriguing to the audience.  

Director John Pendergast has done an incredible job with this 24 strong cast, mostly still in their teens. The 'pre-curtain' opening, where the cast are onstage before lights out (warming up, getting ready for their audition) is a nice touch. It is obvious that the cast have worked hard on 'characterization' to understand the emotions, motivations and behaviours of their roles in order to play them convincingly. Inspired by the technique of New York dancer Jojo Smith, choreographers Bridie Clark and Ellie Martin have showcased the talents of the company by seamlessly blending different genres of dance that are visually stunning and emotionally engaging. Taking into consideration each cast member the choreography is tailor made to highlight each person's strengths, whether it be tap, jazz, ballet, contemporary or comedy. The company numbers including 'Opening: I Hope I Get It', the numerous 'Montages' and 'One/Bows' were full of energy and pizzazz and showered with rapturous applause!  

Vocal director Jessica Davy has succeeded the herculean task of coaching 19 main leads, creating an authentic and relatable experience for the audience through both dialogue and song. Lighting design by Daniel Bowen and Jaydan Harvey established different moods, atmospheres and helped transport the audience between different locations within the story including the rehearsal room and a Broadway stage. A follow spot was used to great effect helping to create a sense of competition and excitement among the auditionees. The use of four large mirrors create the effect of depth and illusion during pivotal scenes in Act Two. Audio design by Tim Mann maintained a good balance between the music, dialogue and vocals. Costume design by Debbie Jenkins is authentic to the 70's era and captures the personality of each performer. Without giving too much away, the Act Two finale (featuring costumes worthy of the Radio City Rockettes) are to die for, leaving a lasting impression on the audience well after the show has finished! 

Standout performances: Bella Lucas' (Mike) energetic tap solo in 'I Can Do That' was a crowd pleaser. Claudia Levey (Sheila), Jessica Masalski (Bebe) and Lottie O'Hare's (Maggie) performance of 'At The Ballet' was commanding, vulnerable and uplifting. Georgia Neilson (Kristine) and Charbel Karaan's (Al) raucous duet of 'Sing' brought comedic relief in Act One. Karaan's voice and personality is magnetic! Charlotte Holland's (Diana) emotionally charged rendition of 'Nothing' was 'nothing' short of sensational! Imogen Brown brought the house down with the satirical 'Dance: Ten; Looks: Three'. Emily Peatman's (Cassie) performance of 'The Music and The Mirror' was a masterful blend of vocal talent, physical expression and emotional depth. The chorus numbers were particularly strong, most noticeably in 'What I Did For Love' where the company blended beautifully both in tone and harmonies. Jordan Grenfell with his commanding voice and stage presence was perfectly cast as Zach, the director. Izzi D'Aversa's (Paul) Act Two monologue was honest, raw and unaffected. Kudos to Kershawn Theodore (Mark) for his standout dancing prowess throughout the show.

Other performers include Georgie Henry (Lori, Zach's assistant), Bailey Ogden (Don), Veronika Bisak (Connie), Nickolas Brown (Greg), Liam McAloon (Bobby), Annabelle Windsor (Judy) and Darcy Morrin (Richie). Ensemble: Milly Comport, Hayley O'Donnell, Tahlia Phoenix, Shayla Warwick and Molly Whytcross. 

In A Chorus Line both dancers and non-dancers, young and old alike, will find solace and validation of their own struggles as reflected in the story. However it is done in an entertaining, uplifting and toe-tapping way that will leave you singing all the way home!  

It is 'one, singular sensation' not to be missed!   

Jonathan Cox

Photos: Bridie Clark