Review: A CHORUS LINE at the Playhouse - Carla Sankey Commands the Stage

After two disappointing recent productions, the Playhouse has bounced back with a fine production of that old theatrical chestnut, A Chorus Line. In spite of having a score that has no really outstanding songs (with "One Singular Sensation" only becoming memorable through repetition) and characters that are skin deep and for the large part off-the-shelf stereotypes, the show still entertains somehow and generally proves to have stood the test of time.

Director Tim Hedgepeth manages to draw some fine performances from a talented cast, which includes Christopher Berry (giving a performance as the director Zach that brings Bob Fosse to mind), Paige Berry as Cassie and Rick Sanchez as Paul (a performance being all the more touching for an understated interpretation in a role that was spoofed by Robby Vance in Make Me a Musical. His monologue in the second act went on a little too long, but his performance was more effective than the actor in the movie version, whose interpretation I felt was melodramatic almost to the point of being risible).

Apart from the Sanchez monologue and a dance by Paige Berry at the end of act one that also went on a little too long, the production was tight and moved along at a good pace.

Jane Haas did her usual fine job as music director, Rose Kennedy did her usual fine job as costume designer, and Ryan DeRoos did a good job with the sets.

However, the show overwhelmingly belongs to Carla Sankey, who choreographed the show and played the role of Sheila. A Chorus Line is very much a choreographer's show. It stands or falls by its choreography more than anything else. Carla Sankey's choreography was excellent.

But it was also her show because of the way she commanded the stage. In spite of the fact that she made no attempt to upstage anyone or go out of her way to draw attention to herself, one's eye kept returning to her because of her sinuous grace and the fact that she delivers the strongest characterization of all as a cynical performer who has seen it all, but whose tough exterior hides an inner vulnerability. Her performance oozed star quality. Her stage presence was palpable. Even when standing still, she commanded attention because of her posture and poise and the way she interacted with what was going on around her. Watching her walk across the stage was like watching a panther stalking its prey. The only thing wrong with her performance was it made it difficult to believe that any director would not pick her for the final cast (unless afraid of her eclipsing everyone else or of having to deal with such a formidable character).

There were a number of other good performances, including John Berring as Bobby, Stephan Gaeth as Greg, Alison Leigh Hinojosa as Val, Luis Garcia Jr as Al, Carley Elise Gossen as Bebe, and Lauren Silva as Diana (to name but a few).

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