Off-Broadway Review: A Chorus Line

When I decided to work at Walt Disney World after college, none of my friends seemed even remotely surprised. Later, when I decided to move to New York City, again people reacted with excitement more closely related to it’s-about-time than what-a-surprise. It’s almost like everyone around me could see these things that had a special place in my heart. But somehow I hadn’t realized it yet.

The same goes for musical theater.

Some of my favorite movies growing up were Grease, Dirty Dancing, and Annie… and Fame… and Little Shop of Horrors. Seriously, how did I not see it?

Another one of those favorites growing up was A Chorus Line.

I was lucky enough to work in the Broadway world for a few years, and I still miss it all the time. And while it may not be exactly the same as that longing one feels as a performer (don’t worry; I’ve felt that too), I could always relate to that gaggle of dancers just hoping for it to be the day their dreams come true.

I must have watched Michael Douglas as Zach a hundred times as a kid. Don’t get me started on how completely age-inappropriate that was, but I didn’t care. I was hooked. Despite all the hardship that little movie shows, there was always something magical about Broadway for me.

When I saw the a production of A Chorus Line would be mounted as part of New York City Center’s 75^th Anniversary Season, I knew I had to go. My husband has been in and out of the hospital quite a bit this year, but that didn’t stop me. I bought tickets the day they went on sale.

Worth it.

A Chorus Line takes place in 1975 at a Broadway theatre during a slightly unorthodox audition for dancers. A true ensemble piece, we are given a closer look into the lives of these dancers – where they’re from, how they started dancing, why they need this job.

While some of the storylines feel a bit dated at this point, the heart stands true: the life of any artist is supremely challenging… and worth every single struggle.

Some highlights for this particular production:

Emily Franch as Maggie. Maggie is part of the “At the Ballet” trio, but she ripped my heart out with her belt toward the end of the song. Her bio indicates this as her New York debut, so be on the lookout.

“What I Did for Love.” I’ve always thought Diana’s pep talk near the end of the show was a little hokey. On the other hand, this classic song tugs right at the heartstrings. It’s always amazing to think about the sacrifices we are willing to make for the things we truly care about.

New York City Center. Seriously. Have you ever seen a show there? It’s such a beautiful theater! It opened its doors in 1943, and it’s still amazing. The proscenium alone with its mosaics and chandeliers took my breath away. I look forward to seeing more there in the future.

Unfortunately, I can’t recommend you see this production, as it was a very limited run of just a few days. I will however encourage you to support the arts wherever you are. You could very well be helping someone’s dreams come true.