 |
|
|
| One of the classics has reappeared in St.
Louis at the Fox Theatre as A Chorus Line brings the magic
and the music back to our area. The show has lost none of its impact and
theatricality as it blossoms with numbers like "What I Did For Love" and the
always spectacular, "One." It's great to see a new generation breath life into the ultimate show business musical as auditions for a new musical bring a series of stories and songs that give us a glimpse into what it's like at a "Broadway" job interview as well as perspective on the people who struggle to get into a show. A Chorus Line is truly an ensemble cast yet several people get to expand on their lives through stories and song. Two understudies on opening night get to live the "dream within a dream" as they shine in their respective roles including Erica Mansfield as the sultry Sheila and Stephanie Martignetti as the cute and perky Val who extols her newly acquired assets. Robyn Hurder is outstanding as the over-qualified Cassie and steals the show with her "Music and the Mirror" number. Kevin Neil McCready is a stern but compassionate director, Zach and Rebecca Riker shines as Diana as she describes her trials and tribulations in acting class and then gets to lead the way in the most memorable number in the show, the anthem of all show biz folk, "What I Did For Love." Clyde Alves lights up the stage with his nifty dance number while Colt Prattes and Jessica Latshaw highlight the hazards of one-dimensional talent. Bryan Knowlton also gives a moving performance as Paul when he relates his personal struggles. Director Bob Avian and choreographer Baayork Lee have done justice to the musical classic and the exciting Marvin Hamlisch music and delightful book and lyrics by Edward Kleban and James Kirkwood have lost none of their impact. A Chorus Line is always a must-see and this production is the perfect one for those who will experience the thrill for the first time. It's polished from start to finish. It runs without an intermission so you're out of the Fox in about two hours and ready for a late night nosh. A Chorus Line plays at the Fox Theatre through May 24th. This is Steve Allen with a look at theatre for Classic 99. |
||