By Gerard Falco.
The Westchester Broadway Theatre brings to town one of the longest running plays in Broadway history with A Chorus Line. The award-winning show, with music by Marvin Hamlisch and lyrics by Edward Kleban made its first appearance on Broadway in 1975. Directed and choreographed here by Mark Martino, it remains as exciting and relevant now as it did almost two decades ago. It is a play within a play focusing upon the personal struggles of a group of talented dancers competing hard for a place on a chorus line. Their individual stories are based upon the lives of real-life performers. Their reasons for competing for a place on the stage are sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes humorous and always captivating.
This production remains to true to the original simple story line. The play is entirely set upon an imaginary rehearsal stage and the performers appear costumed in dance rehearsal gear matching their individual personalities right up to the climax. The large crew of actors fills the stage and the choreography is complex and energetic right from the beginning. The single setting is kept interesting by the clever use of lighting. The very popular musical score is great and the sound quality is very good.
The large cast of actors play their unique roles well. The personal stories portrayed by each actor is compelling and engaging. Their voices blend well as a chorus and there are several well performed solos. My favorite was Erica Mansfield’s portrayal of Cassie, the aging star in the “The Music and the Mirror” scene. Her voice is passionate and her dance expressed with the same valiant despair that the role calls for. Naturally, one is anxious for the reprise with the full caste appearing on stage in their glitzy costumes. The apron stage works well for this number as the full cast comes singing and stepping appearing to stop right at your seat. There is much to grab your attention throughout. There is no intermission for this show but the two-hour run time goes by way too quickly. This classic is one to enjoy. If you are thinking about a visit to the dinner theatre this year, this is one you want to see.