One Singular Sensation! By Anna Hessel
Drury Lane’s fabulous production of the Broadway classic, “A Chorus Line”, the story of hopefuls at an audition in 1975, has an absolutely outstanding cast, and is brilliantly directed by Jane Lanier. Of course, this magnificent theater puts their own innovative spin on the show, making it even more interesting. “A Chorus Line” is usually performed as a one act, however, this particular version includes an intermission. I really like the fact the first act ends climatically with the character of Cassie (portrayed brilliantly by Sara Andreas) left standing upstage, allowing the anticipation to build for the second act, which opens with her divine dance solo, “The Music and the Mirror”. In the role of Cassie’s former love interest, Ryan Watkinson as Zach makes an extraordinary Drury Lane debut; his characterization is flawless, with just the right blend of steel and compassion.
Drury Lane favorite Sawyer Smith is the best onstage Bobby I have seen thus far; his comic timing and sincere range of emotions literally took my breath away. Even his non-speaking moments are superb. Portraying Diana Morales is another Drury Lane newbie, Yesy Garcia – her vocals, acting, and dancing are absolutely impeccable. Maggie, played by Alley Ellis, also a Drury Lane first timer, is wonderfully characterized – her dancing is spot on and she is loaded with stage presence. Martin Ortiz Tapia’s Paul gives an emotionally charged performance – understated and believable. Devon Hayakawa is a pint-sized powerhouse; she also is making her debut at Drury Lane in the role of the spirited Connie.
The lovely and haughty Shelia is stridently brought to life by the striking Alexandra Palkovic, and Val is played splendidly by the energetic Caleigh Pan-Kita. In his Drury Lane debut is the enormously talented Andrew Tufano – he plays Tom with refreshing realism, boyish charm, and exquisite stage presence. Oz Shoshan (Greg) does an amazing job as dance captain, as does Madison Sheward, the assistant dance captain – the two make “one thrilling combination”. Abbey Friedmann (Lois), Jorge Guerra (Larry), Christopher Kelley (Mark), Ivory Leonard IV (Richie), Sam Linda (Mike), Ashton Norris (Becky), Lisa Revis (Trisha), Melody Rowland (Judy), Lance Spencer (Butch), T.J. Tapp (Bebe), and Jordan Taylor (Kristine) round out this incredibly stellar cast.
No review of this musical would be complete without a mention of Sarah Cubbage and Heather C. Jackson, whose costumes are simply supreme. Lighting designer Julie Mack’s innovational design is both illuminating and creative. “A Chorus Line” has something for everyone – any generation or walk of life will enjoy this upbeat, dramatic, and humorous show. I simply adore the fact that Drury Lane uses a variety of body types and ethnicities in their casting, each actor beautiful and talented. The musical numbers by the immortal Marvin Hamlisch are completely enthralling, especially “At the Ballet”, “Nothing”, “Hello 12, Hello 13, Hello Love”, “Dance 10, Looks 3”, “What I Did for Love”, and, of course, the showstopper, “One”. The play only runs until March 19th; don’t miss “A Chorus Line” – it’s the “One”. For tickets or more information, please see their website at www.drurylanetheatre.com.
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