A Chorus Line

One singular sensation
Every little step she takes.
One thrilling combination
Every move that she makes.
One smile and suddenly nobody else will do;
You know you'll never be lonely with you know who.
- “One”

A Chorus Line is a musical about seventeen Broadway dancers auditioning for spots on a chorus line. The book was authored by James Kirkwood, Jr. and Nicholas Dante, lyrics were written by Edward Kleban, and music was composed by Marvin Hamlisch. This landmark musical won nine Tonys and a Pulitzer Prize.

Last evening Joan and I attended the Merry-Go-Round Playhouse presentation.

Auburn native Thommie Walsh was a member of the original cast of “A Chorus Line,” and the character he played, Bobby, was modeled a great deal after Thommie himself. The character, Bobby, describes himself as being from upstate New York, “near Buffalo.”

In the Merry-Go-Round's production, the character of Bobby is being played by another Auburn native, Todd Lattimore, a former student of Thommie Walsh.

The entire show, except for the final minutes, was played on a bare stage, meant to replicate the space and seriousness of the Broadway audition, replete with a floor-to-ceiling, mirrored back wall and work lights. During the intermission the reflection of the audience in the glass made for a unique optical experience.

An enthusiastic, full-house made for a pleasant evening of musical theatre.


Courtesy of Merry-Go-Round
Elizabeth Earley plays Cassie

Merry-Go-Round Playhouse 'Chorus Line' is truly a sensation posted by Joan E. Vadeboncoeur in the The Post-Standard August 27, 2009.