So you think you can ... Chorus Line

So You Think You Can...

Auditions are soon.

Information Night is even sooner.

Are you ready?

I’m fairly ecstatic to be returning to Panorama Theatre Company, pretty much where I started out performing in musicals.

I can’t believe I am about to direct A CHORUS LINE. Yes, it’s one of my favourite shows, but I’m definitely not a dancer. One person even referred to me as ‘The Anti-Dancer’. Nevertheless, something about this show has always moved me and stirred emotions that I never get from musical theatre.

There are only three moments in musical theatre that makes me teary.

·        When Maria dies in West Side Story.

·        When Audrey dies in Little Shop of Horrors (I know. Weird, right?), and finally

·        Paul’s monologue in A CHORUS LINE.

This show is a one of a kind. The marketing slogan, based on an original review, actually reads “The Best Musical. Ever.” Whilst this is a massive claim, I believe it’s fairly accurate.

So here’s the deal. THIS is not going to be your regular production. Not because I’m attempting to be all ‘experimental’ and ‘arty’, but simply due to the fact that A CHORUS LINE, in its traditional format will not sell. Coming up with ideas to present this classic show in a new way has been an exciting process.

Theatre is always changing. We all know this. If you didn’t, turn around and smell the Poppins. I feel as though technical work in shows intimidates some directors. Does this have anything to do with me being Gen Y?

Panorama Theatre Company’s production of A CHORUS LINE will be presented in the style of shows such as ‘So You Think You Can Dance’. In addition to the Director, Choreographer and Musical Directors, we have a Camera Director who will call the show in collaboration with the stage manager. Our design features plasma screens and projections that will present live feeds from cameras set up around the stage and auditorium. Exciting? It gets totes better!

What did you do for love? Spend years stretching muscles and refining ballet technique? Or did you come home from school every night and practise your instruments until you sounded (almost) perfect like I did? This production is really a salute to us as performers. What we sacrificed and gained through our passion for the arts.

In supporting Panorama’s focus of embracing and developing young performers, we’re featuring a ‘youth cast’ in certain parts of the show. Unfortunately, I am unable to say any more on this other than auditionees aged 9 - 14 are very welcome!

Want more? Full orchestra on a scaffolded stage at Frankston Arts Centre = Attractive!

Still want more? See you at the information night. May 14^th. Check out www.panoramatheatre.com