Theater goers or patrons of the arts typically only see the final product. What audiences don’t often see is the artist’s struggle to create their work. Discover what an actor goes through to live their dream and follow their passion during A Chorus Line.
Presenting a classic
Quite easily described as a classic, A Chorus Line opened in 1975 on Broadway, won nine Tony Awards, received a Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and was the longest-running production in Broadway history, until it was surpassed by Cats in 1997.
The show revolves around a director, an assistant choreographer, and seventeen dancers— all desperate for work. While the musical looks at the group as a whole, each dancer’s past is revealed as the story focuses on the struggles and determination of pursuing a role.
Stephanie Dennehy, the production’s director, says that the show has enjoyed 40 years of success, explaining that “It continues to be relevant because there are still artists in this world… who travel from show to show just to do what they love.”
A magical performance
This is the fourth time that Dennehy will direct and choreograph A Chorus Line, and she she has also performed in the show three times.
“My first experience with A Chorus Line was in 1986 at Western Michigan University. Out of 102 people who auditioned I was one of only two freshmen cast,” says Dennehy.
Coming from a small town, Dennehy says she was used to her high school productions with an orchestra of three people. The production’s size drew her to A Chorus Line, explaining “When I heard the WMU orchestra at full volume playing beneath my feet for the opening number… well the only thing I could call it was magical! Needless to say I have been hooked ever since.”
Despite her experience with the production, she says that role of a dancer named Cassie has always stood out to her. “Cassie tried other things, like acting… but she realized that the only thing she wanted to do is dance. I cry a lot during this part of the show… It’s where my performing as a dancer began,” she says.
Dancing has remained a passion for Dennehy and she loves introducing the original choreography to new actors. “I am not modernizing it. It doesn’t need to be,” she explained.
A Chorus Line is a remarkable example of determination and strength, but even more importantly, love. “I hope people are able to take away from the performance, love. The love of whatever it is that they pursue in life… And to help [the audience] realize that maybe they stopped doing something that brought them absolute joy, and maybe this performance will help rekindle it.”
8pm | June 3-4, 10-11, 16-18 | 3:20pm June 12 & 19.
$25/adult | $23/senior | $10/student | $5/under age 13.
Toledo Repertoire Theatre | 16 10th St.
419-243-9277 | toledorep.org
