A CHORUS LINE came into being when Michael Bennett struck
theatrical gold by highlighting the individual “gypsies” in a show. Many of the
stories he recorded made it verbatim into A CHORUS LINE. (Alas none of the gold
made it into any of their pockets. That’s the legend, anyway.)
Reagle’s kick line for this production has its own backstage
drama: Aimee Doherty (who stole the show as the wise cracking Sheila last time
Reagle did A CHORUS LINE) got the chance to sing at POPS on press night so most
of the reviewers didn’t see her. Oh, no! (I feel certain she’s still capable of
larceny.)
Bob Eagle cements his reputation as a wizard because he flew
in Lauren Gemelli for one night for the plum role. (I wouldn’t be surprised if
it involved a magic carpet.) Gemelli is on loan from the national tour of CHICAGO CHICAGO
Mind you, there is no plot. And most of the stories are
pretty schmaltzy so cheeky stands out in welcome relief. Sydney Parra proves my
point with a solid “Nothing,” about a nasty drama school instructor. So does
Ansley Speares in the naughty “Dance: Ten. Looks: Three.”
For my money, if you’re delivering one of the sad stories in
A CHORUS LINE, and you make me believe, even “feel” something (that’s the risk
in Parra’s song), then you’re a knockout. Makai Hernandez did. Director Leslie
Woodies found a stash of talented conservatory students to fill out the line.
Best of all in Reagle’s production is Taavon Gamble as Richie
He sure can “do that.” He’s delightful. He’s funny. He can sing and oh, can he
dance!
