Michael Bennett’s musical masterpiece may have been considered revolutionary in 1975, but resonates more than ever today when the arts industry is struggling so much, making A Chorus Line an apt choice for Nikolai Foster to bring to The Curve.
Focusing on the minor players, compared to the usual backstage stories about rising stars,may seem like an odd narrative choice but it works.
While the effort that goes into creating a production is often appreciated by an audience, the toil which precludes getting to the stage is frequently overlooked , especially when watching the show, so the harsh dynamics of hope and disappointment surrounding the amount of tragedy and trauma that goes into the art are almost uncomfortable to witness.
Not to say A Chorus Line is all doom and gloom. Chloe Saunders does a fabulous rendition of “Dance:Ten; Looks Three”, highlighting the superficiality of the industry with comedic wit.
The show is a whirlwind of Ellen Kane’s choreography to Marvin Hamlisch’s score with moments allowing the individual cast members to shine- ironically the one thing they’re told they shouldn’t do as the chorus line. Ainsley Hall Ricketts’ harrowing performance as Paul, is particularly heartbreaking as he relates the abuse he’s experienced.
There was certainly more than one singular sensation, with a remarkable cast who nailed every part.
The camera projecting onto the back wall gives an authentic fly on the wall feel to the production, catching rogue facial expressions and unflattering angles illustrating the intense scrutiny faced by those within industry, leaving nowhere to hide even within a group.
However by the closing number the actors come together in unison for a triumphant finale driven by Howard Hudson’s spectacular light show.
A Chorus Line is showing at The Curve, Leicester until 31st December 2021. Purchase tickets here https://www.curveonline.co.uk/whats-on/shows/a-chorus-line/
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A Chorus Line at The Curve
Katie Reviews 