Review of A Chorus Line at Norwich Theatre Royal: Musical’s finale is one of best numbers I’ve ever seen on this theatre’s stage
A Chorus Line - Theatre Royal, Norwich
I arrived at the theatre to a nasty shock - the show is two hours with no interval so you can imagine exactly what I was worried about, especially as I always seem to be in the middle of a row!
But time flew in this fast-paced musical which constantly packs a punch - I don't know how the cast keep going!
The plot is fairly straightforward - 17 dancers are chasing just eight roles. Who will get them and why?
What makes it stand out is that each wannabee tells their own story of triumph and disaster - how they have made it this far, often against all the odds.
The terrific Marvin Hamlisch music helps this big-scale piece stand out, with hits including I Hope I Get It, One, Nothing and What I Did For Love.
Adam Cooper, once one of Matthew Bourne’s troupe, is outstanding as Zach, the pushy choreographer, while understudy Laura Hills stepped up as Cassie, the ageing dancer who wants another chance.
The show’s finale is one of the best numbers I’ve ever seen on stage at this theatre.
It was simply packed with dancers, dressed in simmering gold, sequins and top hats, who performed intricate, tightly choreographed steps as they sang their hearts out, too.
A singular sensation, for sure.
The show continues until Saturday, visit www.norwichtheatre.org
Review by Sarah Hardy
