The latest production of A Chorus Line at the New Theatre Cardiff delivered a powerful reminder of why this show remains an iconic staple in musical theatre. In a production where there isn’t just “one singular sensation,” as the famous song might suggest, the entire cast was sensational. From start to finish, they embodied the spirit and intensity of this demanding show.

The set design was simple yet effective, allowing the performers to take centre stage while adding depth through subtle multimedia elements. The clever use of a live camera added a modern touch, bringing the audience closer to the action and highlighting the raw emotions of the characters as they navigated the anxieties and pressures of the audition process. This choice elevated the tension, making the audience feel the characters’ vulnerability in real-time.

Lighting played a key role in this production, adding drama without stepping outside the realistic confines of the audition room setting. The shifts in lighting underscored the emotional weight of key moments, moving from bright, harsh illumination to more intimate, subdued tones as characters opened up about their personal stories. It worked within the framework of the piece, heightening the stakes without ever feeling overly theatrical or out of place.

The choreography, famously rigorous in A Chorus Line, was executed with precision. What stood out, however, was how the movement, at times rough and unpolished, intentionally complemented the characters’ emotional states. The performers captured the nuances of their characters’ anxieties and desires, showing both their polished skills and the struggle behind the scenes.

Performances across the board were impressive, as the script and score demands. This cast was filled with true triple-threat performers who could sing, dance, and act with equal skill. They embodied the highs and lows of the audition process, making the audience root for each individual.

All in all, this production of A Chorus Line was a well-executed, emotionally charged evening of theatre. For anyone who appreciates the demands of true triple-threat performers, this is a show that hits all the right notes.

⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️

Jack Maurice