A Chorus Line opens Feb. 10 at Seattle Musical Theatre

Cast of A Chorus Line at Seattle Musical Theatre
Photo by Jenni El Fattal

Before there was Glee, there was A Chorus Line. The heart wrenching and exhilarating portal into the lives of those driven to perform opens February 10, 2012 at Seattle Musical Theatre.

Set in 1975, the book was authored by James Kirkwood Jr. and Nicholas Dante. The lyrics were written by Edward Kleban and the music was composed by Marvin Hamlisch. The depth of their talent and skill is evidenced not only by the winning of nine Tony Awards, but a Pulitzer Prize for Drama, which is extremely rare for musical theatre.

A Chorus Line follows a group of desperate to work actor/dancers through their audition experience for a spot on the synchronized dance chorus of an upcoming Broadway production. Ironically, Director Zach uses the audition to mine each of their very unique personal events that shaped their lives as dancers.

"Cassie" in A Chorus Line at Seattle Musical Theatre
Photo by Jenni El Fattal

The show is a historical piece as well. Written from the experiences of real dancers on Broadway in 1974, it is filled with pop cultural references of the time. This was a different era, where skeletons were locked securely in closets, and there was no social media to reveal one’s secrets. The social revelations in A Chorus Line were ground breaking in their day. The themes, however, are timeless, as the experiences of the dancers of “the line” leaves the audience with a deeper understanding of overcoming pain and fear in our search to experience what we love.

Seattle Musical Theatre (formerly Civic Light Opera) is conveniently located in Magnuson Park, at 7120 62nd Ave NE. Parking is free and plentiful. Have dinner in LFP at the Grill or The Commons and easily make the 20 minute drive to SMT. Performances are Friday through Sunday, with one Thursday night offering. Tickets are $35-$40 with special rates for seniors, students and group sales. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the box office at 206-363-2809.