A Chorus Line at Festival Theatre Edinburgh Review

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

Reviewed by Deborah

It is always surprising how shows begin – just a spark of an idea can turn into a show that becomes ageless. A Chorus Line set in a rehearsal room as dancers nervously wait for their chance to be chosen; it’s the final cut, everything now rides on this last performance.

Stepping back – A Chorus Line began when Michael Bennett DiFiglia left home at sixteen to audition for a European company of West Side Story. He became a Broadway ‘gypsy’ going from show to show; but in his heart he wanted to direct. Armed with a reel-to-reel tape recorder he pitched his idea to Joseph Papp, a theatrical producer and director whose mission was to bring theatre to all. On his tape he had story after story of dancers, how their lives began, many coming from broken family life. Papp agreed to run with the show.

Bennett was onto something BIG. The Chorus Line was born and since 1975 has been touching people’s hearts.  Stage set made the performers seem small and vulnerable. Costumes varied, at times showing something of their inner selves, others more subtle as they portrayed their mousy personalities. The use of a camera to project individual images of dancers onto a large board, these were distorted by the director or his assistant. The songs that were used in the show brought a deeper meaning to the story/stories.

The one scene of the director and chorus girl, a love affair that fizzled out, only for her to come back seeking work because of being down on her luck, was a bit odd. There was a small introduction to them knowing each other, yet it became something, then nothing.

The one actor who stood out to me was Toby Seddon, he brought some light-hearted banter to the stage that even though tragic made you smile. He is a true performer and his love for what he does shines out.

A Chorus Line was fun to watch, but deep inside me I cringed at the thought of how each story personal and in many cases abusive made light of what they had endured growing up, learning who they were.

The Festival Theatre is inviting with it large windows towards the street, the staff are helpful and ready to offer any help needed. Its clean environment caters to disabilities with a lift to each floor. All their bars offer a wide range of drinks and snacks.

Parking is a problem in Edinburgh most of the time, so if you are able to take the train or buses to get there it makes life a lot easier. Also, remember now that ULEZ areas are enforced within city limits. If you have a blue badge, you can register to drive within these areas safely; however, don’t make the mistake of driving the wrong vehicle as they are quick to send you a fine!

Overall, I rated this show 3.5/5 as it just didn’t live up to my expectations.

Rating: 3.5/5 

For more information or to book tickets, visit www.capitaltheatres.com.
Evenings 7.30pm | Matinees 2.30pm.
Running time: 1 hour 52 minutes, no interval, the bar will be open after the show.
Age: 12+. Contains strong language and adult themes.