A Chorus Line is a fun season opener in an exciting new lineup of shows at the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre. The musical opens on a long line of dancers auditioning for one of only a few available parts in a chorus. As the winnowing process begins they're asked to share their personal stories. They are all very different people but they have one thing in common, their passion for dancing. From funny songs, such as “Sing!” to heartfelt ballads, the show honors the hard work that goes on behind the scenes of every musical.
There were a few standout performers in the show. The first was Tim Hunt. His quiet portrayal of the troubled Paul San Marco was powerful in its simplicity. Diana, played by Nathalie Cruz, was another. She takes the lead on the famous ballad “What I Did for Love” and has a the solo performance in “Nothing.” Her beautiful voice and her character's earnest devotion to the craft of dance were wonderful. Laura Lockwood, last seen in ICT’s Guys and Dolls, is also delightful as an acerbic older dancer. She once dreamed of becoming a prima donna, but now is wondering how long she has left in the business.
There were a few standout performers in the show. The first was Tim Hunt. His quiet portrayal of the troubled Paul San Marco was powerful in its simplicity. Diana, played by Nathalie Cruz, was another. She takes the lead on the famous ballad “What I Did for Love” and has a the solo performance in “Nothing.” Her beautiful voice and her character's earnest devotion to the craft of dance were wonderful. Laura Lockwood, last seen in ICT’s Guys and Dolls, is also delightful as an acerbic older dancer. She once dreamed of becoming a prima donna, but now is wondering how long she has left in the business.
Ryan Koharchik deserves a nod for his excellent set and lighting design. The production utilizes a simple backdrop with occasional mirrors, letting the dancers themselves become the focus. Lighting is a vital element in this show as dancers take the spotlight as they tell their story and it was well done.
The show is performed with no intermission, which is crucial to maintaining the pressure and anxiety the dancers feel during their audition. The most interesting aspect of the show, which was a smash success when it premiered in 1975, is that the stories told on the stage are all based on the real stories of dancers in New York City. For decades the musical has remained close to the heart of performers, who can identify with the painful process. For the rest of us, it provides a glimpse into the lives of the people in show business. It can be a grueling life, but it's one fueled by a fiery passion.
Don't Miss the Show
Performances:
The show closes Sept. 22. Performances begin at 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. The Tarkington is located at 3 Center Green, Carmel, IN 46032 at the Center for the Performing Arts.
Tickets:
Ticket prices start at $32 and can be purchased by calling (317) 923-4597 or visiting www.civictheatre.org. Next up is the chilling play, The Woman in Black, the perfect show for the Halloween season.
Photos courtesy of the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre
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