If you loved Chorus Line you will be enthralled with this documentary about the 1975 musical as well as the revival in 2006.We see actual footage of the director of the first production. We see some of the rehearsals and learn how the production actually was formatted. It started as a glimmer of an idea when the director collected information from all the actors and dancers he had met. It was a daring concept and many were not sure it would work.
The revival production interviewed 1000 performers and had to cut it down to 19. It was so personal to watch these talented young people strut and dance in anticipation of getting the job and having work. The standards were exceptional high.
It was such fun to see several dancers try out for the same part. I found myself trying to guess who deserved the part. Several of those tryouts were interviewed and told us their story. It was so touching.
One very talented man had a unique approach. After his audition he stated that it was his party in there not theirs. He said that he does what he wants to do and then said he didn’t need the part. Another contestant was so moving in his audition that the panelists were all crying. I confess the audience was also wiping away tears.
The film then jumps ahead 4 months and we see the final call backs. Can you imagine the nerves the contestants must have experienced?
One performer stated that each night is opening night and also closing night because you just don’t know what will happen.
The production is filmed again 8 months later and then finally it is opening night. I was saddened to see that the production was in memory of Michael Bennett, the original director.
This documentary has it all. I learned so much about what goes into a musical production. By the end of the film I felt I personally knew some of the characters. I really cared about some of them and was totally in awe of the unbelievable talent. I loved Chorus Line and now I am thrilled by this documentary about the first production as well as the revival. Don’t miss this one.
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