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Synopsis The longest running show in Broadway history. 17 dancers embark on an inspirational journey; only 8 will make it into the Chorus Line. From the celebrated opening number to the unforgettable finale, their stories of elation and disappointment are told with humour, pathos and Broadway pizzazz. Lyric Theatre
A Chorus Line is held up as one of the musical greats on Broadway. The original production ran for an incredible 6,137 performances, and is very much a staple of American musicals but this new production at The Lowry directed by Simon Rawlings and produced by Pele Productions shows that the show's themes of ambition, drive, determination and sometimes failure are universal.
I was excited to see this production, because as a fan of the show, I have fond memories of the revival on Broadway. Happily I can report that this new production does not disappoint. The story of course is simple, a group of dancers audition to be a part of the chorus in a new Broadway show. During this process, each are asked to reveal who they really are. Yes, the story really is that straightforward, but it’s this simplicity that makes A Chorus Line so timeless and appealing. There are no flashy sets and no gimmicks, just a great score with human stories carrying the show all the way through the finale.
Pele's production has much to praise, from the beautifully performed "At the Ballet" to the crowd pleasing end. This Chorus Line is slick, tight and has a wonderful cast, many of whom would be right at home doing the show on Broadway. The one slight let-down is the choreography, sure, it's energetic and impressive. But, at times it felt a little, dare I say, diluted and scaled down. A disastrously choreographed "Music in the Mirror" brings the curtain down on Act One, leaving you feeling cold, yet this is usually a dance highlight. Luckily though, the show's other big moments are handled with great skill and fire.
Thankfully, the cast put it all on the line with Drew McOnie, Olivia Phillip, Jenny Gayner, Emma Dalton and Andrew Ahern all giving show-stopping performances. Ahern’s Act Two opener is one of the highlights and [Twinnie–Lee Moore]'s Cassie also lights up the stage when given the chance to showcase her impressive vocals and acting chops. Sadly, the weak link in the cast is Hollyoaks' star Jamie Lomas as director Zach, as he brings very little to the role and is often left lost in the background. But, this is no surprise considering the sheer amount of talent on the stage.
These small criticisms however, cannot take anything away from what is a very strong production. From the lighting to the costume, every detail is top notch.
A Chorus Line is a show about passion and this production has that coming out of its legwarmers. If the first night is anything to go by, this Broadway classic remains a singular sensation.
There is no way anyone could seriously give this show 1 star, because it is too good! There are a few areas, where improvements could possibly be made, but overall it is an entertaining, enjoyable, extremely well danced , acted and sung production. Many numbers deserving 5 stars. Well done Pele, the orchestra and all the cast. - Linda
07 May 10
Excellent performance all round. well done everyone one involved. - Darren
05 May 10
the sound was shocking constant high pitched noises that hurt the ears, and thats before i comment on the singing. The singing was a let down and constantly either out of key or off pitch. I felt like i was watching bad x factor auditions at times. The acting wasnt much better and jamie lomas was very wooden with and occasional yorkshire accent apearing instead of american. The dancing was about all the production had going for it, just about. I expected a much better performance and have seen better school performances of shows than this. - Martin White
04 May 10
Poor sound, acting and horrendous orchestra! Jamie Lomas brought nothing to the performance. A total disappointment and waste of money. - Beki Farrington
04 May 10
Well, I loved it!
I thought the cast were all very strong, and Drew McOnie was fabulous and I couldn't take my eyes off him.
I could go and see this production all week and still not be bored with it. First class! - Gill
03 May 10
A total disappointment. A lacklustre lighting design, weak performances, excepting "what I did for love" which was drowned out by a weak sound design. And was there even an orchestra?
Lots of energy, the cast did well to bring something to a production that seemed to lack in all the elements that make a great musical.
Myself and my friends left disappointed and disillusioned with the state of this production.
We weren't alone, as half the audience seemed to disappear during the interval.
The finale was a major flaw, the promotional material shone, unlike the choreography and costume, which seemed very ringmaster.
Maybe the lowry and it's audience are too easily pleased and have no comparable quality productions. - Raymond Marshall
03 May 10
Was great to see this on stage, but felt very let down. If I wanted to see the movie I'd put my DVD on. Where was the creative input, it was a complete parody of the movie even down to the costuming. Agree with the choreography too, it didn't wow me and what shoddily fitted guys costumes for the finale! Best highlights were Morales 'What I did for love' and Paul's emotional recount of his story. - Gar
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