Under the dazzling lights of On Pitch Performing Arts, "A Chorus Line" takes the stage with an abundance of raw talent! This production is filled to the brim with exceptional performers and showcases the immense skills and dedication of each member of the cast. As the performers pour their hearts into every step, note, and line, the audience is captivated by the sheer talent that radiates from the stage. "A Chorus Line" is a mesmerizing display of the extraordinary abilities that make musical theatre truly magical!
Diving into the heart of the show, let's shine a spotlight on some standout performers who brought something special to the stage: Gabriel Barrett, Pidgin Feather, Niamh Helwig, Megan Mariano, and Beckham Westenskow's dance skills not only caught my eye but they also underscored the show's emotional beats, leaving a lasting impression and leaving me wanting more! Harriett Bauer, Cassie Hurt- McLarty , and Leilani Moss had standout vocals, each bringing a unique power that was spellbound. The emotion that Ashley Ramsey (Cassie) showed not only in her dancing, but in every word and note that left her mouth was absolutely stunning. Her reactions to everything going on during the whole show was captivating and each relationship she built with every character was so heartfelt. A beautiful thing that this production included was a moment in Cassie's big song, "The Music and the Mirror", where Ramsey had the chance to share the stage with her adorable daughter Violet Ramsey. It had people in tears and was perhaps one of the most memorable moments of the show! When it comes to actors lighting up the stage with infectious enthusiasm, Elise Wood (Judy) has got it down perfectly! She showed off her true performance skills in every scene and dance. The biggest standout to me was Marinda Maxfield (Zach). Watching Maxfield's authentic reactions to every single character had me in tears many times. It was so genuine and just perfect in every way. This casting just might have to be the most perfect out of the whole show! Every single character in this show showed their true dedication to their roles as well as each other. I don't think I've ever seen so much chemistry between actors before until seeing this production! They all added a layer of authenticity and emotion that made it even that much greater of a show.
A huge part of "A Chorus Line" is the choreography, and Bailey Porter exceeded ALL expectations and even more! Watching every dance beautifully executed, you could tell that not only did the cast work extremely hard, but also Porter! All of that hard work really paid off and every bit of movement and staging was stunning. Along with amazing choreography, all of the blocking and music was also splendid. Jared Daley (Director) and Jennifer Morgan (Music Director) very clearly paid lots of attention to every single detail and helped pull the whole show together along with Porter.
The lighting design (Kennedy Miller) and set design (Chris Morgan) were simple and masterful, creating an intimate yet dynamic atmosphere that drew the audience right into the heart of the show. The clever use of the lights, and especially the spotlights, not only highlighted the raw emotions of the performers but also mirrored the characters' inner turmoil and aspirations! As for the costumes, they were a standout- each piece was meticulously crafted, capturing the essence of the '70's with a modern twist that felt both authentic and fresh. Cariel Goodwin did an exceptional job ensuring that every actor looked stunning in their costumes while also reflecting their unique personalities throughout. The visual elements of this production worked in perfect harmony and amplified the emotional impact of this classical musical!
In closing, "A Chorus Line" at OPPA! was an exquisite display of theatrical brilliance, where every actor delivered a performance nothing short of wonderful! The seamless blend of set, lighting, and costume design created a visual so perfectly complemented by the raw talent left on that stage. Every person involved with this show truly crafted an immersive experience. This production not only honored the legacy of the original but also threw in a breath of fresh air and new life into it. Buy your tickets immediately! You do not want to miss this one!
Theatre matters, theatre is important, theatre is impactful.
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