A Chorus Line at Curve Theatre Leicester Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by H Whetton

Wow is my first impression of tonight’s performance of A Chorus Line at Curve Theatre Leicester.  It was incredible how such a simple stage set up can be transformed by amazing lighting to produce such a fantastic show.

Set in America in the 1970’s the stage was setup was simple, a dance rehearsal studio. With a hidden, well most of the time a live band at the back of the set. I must say it is fantastic to have live music, as I know there has been funding issues for live music in theatre productions. The band were brilliant, cross over sections from classic, soul, jazz all seamless. They even played us all out of the theatre.

Watching 17 dancers auditioning for a place in the chorus line, may seem at face value a bit strange, however, each dancer had their own story of how they got to that exact point in time. Considering these stories were taken from real dancers, some were heart wrenching, others comical.

My favourite audition piece was by Mike Costa, played by Redmand Rance. I loved his voice singing “I can do that” and really enjoyed his dancing and enthusiasm, it made me smile. My daughter’s favourite piece was “at the ballet” performed by Sheila played by Amy Thornton, Bebe played by Lydia Banister and Maggie played by Kate Parr. It was a beautiful song extremely well written and performed by the three ladies. My daughter described it as giving her shivers as they performed it.

The most heart-breaking story was from Paul san Marco, played by Manuel Pacific, listening to his story broke my heart, I have so much admiration for the actual artist, and his strength to fight for what he wanted. The part was played brilliantly, it also showed a softer side to Zac the show’s producer, who did seem a bit harsh until then, played by Adam Cooper.

It is really hard trying to pick out my favourite pieces when I loved the whole show, I cannot leave out songs such as “gimme the ball” performed by Mireia Mambo as Richie Walters, her dancing was brilliant, joining in the performance was Bradley Delarosel playing the part of Gregory Gardner, along with the rest of the cast. The most memorable song is near the end of the show , which is “ What I did for love” performed by Jocasta Almgill, playing the part of Diana Morales, finishing with the whole cast joining in, such a fantastic song and performance.

It really does seem harsh not to mention everyone in the cast as we enjoyed all of their performances.

The costumes were typical 70’s dance wear and clothes, until show time, where the glitz and glamour of Broadway, shows it’s very gold and glittery head, we loved it.

The use of lighting really made this show from soft lighting, spot lights to full on Broadway , pyrotechnics and confetti. It took you through the journey with the dancers from the start to the end.

As you can probably tell we absolutely loved A Chorus Line at the Curve in Leicester, for any theatre or musical lover it is a must see, it takes you through a whole host of emotions, and gives a great respect and admiration for performers and what they have to go through to get roles in shows. 

Curve Leicester is a fantastic theatre, that rivals any West End theatre. Their staff are really friendly, and helpful. It is fully accessible and easy to get to.

A Chorus Line is playing at The Curve Leicester from Saturday 29th June – Saturday 13th July 2024.
Ticket prices range from £47.50 -£10.00 depending on seating.
There is a £2.00 booking fee.
Curve Theatre, 60 Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB.
BOX OFFICE: 0116 2423595
https://www.curveonline.co.uk/whats-on/shows/a-chorus-line-2/
Rating 5/5.