Shimmy on over to Griffith University’s Queensland Conservatorium in South Bank to see their milestone 50th anniversary performance of A Chorus Line. Starring the incredibly talented students of the Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre (QAEMT), it is a wonder to watch.
A Chorus Line follows a dance audition unlike any other. In the heat of desperation and competitiveness, the dancers are asked about their personal truths. All their secrets are laid bare, from their aspirations, childhoods, sexualities and insecurities, in these intensely emotional performances. The Class of 2025 Musical Theatre students amazingly bring to life the real testimonies of 17 Broadway dancers in their expertly raw portrayals.
Nearly 50 years ago to the week, A Chorus Line opened on Broadway at the Shubert Theatre, where it ran for a record-breaking 6,137 shows across fifteen years. The production, directed and choreographed by Michael Bennet, won nine Tony Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the New York Drama Critics Circle Award. Unsurprisingly, it quickly became a global sensation!
Rising above the challenge set before him is award-winning theatre director Alister Smith, who masterfully brings QAEMT’s production of A Chorus Line to life. Smith’s thoughtful understanding of the characters and the complicated societal setting of the musical illuminates its key message: to dream despite facing setbacks is to be courageous.
Musical Director and Orchestra Conductor Nigel Ubrihien instils an emotional complexity into the score that resonates among the audience. The extraordinary reveal of the orchestra behind the stage curtain in the show’s finale is amazing.
The set and costume design by Penny Challen is simply spectacular. She carefully crafts 1970s-inspired workout clothes that express the personality of each character. With the many leotards, legwarmers, and bright colours, it feels like stepping back in time.
Choreographer Dan Venz, alongside Assistant Choreographer Emma Whitefield create complex and high-energy scenes. Their awe-inspiring work is best seen in the exciting and mesmerising group dances, such as the show’s opening, I Hope I Get It. And in the finale, One, where dozens of dancers come together in perfect synchronicity and are all granted their time in the spotlight.
In a brave and touching moment, Sage Del Carmen delivers a heartfelt monologue as Paul. Carmen makes the character’s nerves palpable, twitching in the spotlight as he talks about growing up poor in New York and being lonely in school. His tearful outburst when he reveals Paul’s parents’ embarrassment at his sexuality and drag performances is crushing.
Brydie Faith Hall’s portrayal of the sassy diva Sheila is a standout. Her saucy one-liners will certainly tickle a laugh out of audience members. Kate Hudson-James as Bebe and Charlie Preston as Maggie join Hall in a heart-wrenching rendition of At the Ballet. Their beautiful harmonising gives extra depth to the meaningful song.
Croft Phillips’ incredible dancing and flexibility while singing the peppy I Can Do That is captivating. He’ll have audiences awe-struck.
Ella Rose Harding’s solo in The Music and the Mirror is magical. Playing the impassioned and talented Cassie, Harding’s inspiring singing is only topped by her smooth, angelic dancing. The use of six full-length mirrors to create the perspective of multiple Cassies on stage is dazzling.
A Chorus Line’s comedic genius is at its best in Sing!, which is performed by the energetic Christina Keen and Saul Kavenagh. Playing the young couple Kristine and Al, the pair gleefully sing (or try to) about Kristine’s pitchy voice. Their performance of the humorous and playful song lights up the stage.
The Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre are bringing the glitz and glamour of classic Broadway back to Brisbane. This talented cast and crew are high-kicking their way to the stars in this extraordinary production of A Chorus Line.
A Chorus Line is performed by the Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre and runs until 9 August at the Conservatorium Theatre, Griffith University.
Tickets: https://www.qtix.com.au/whats-on/2025/qcgu-a-chorus-line
Website: https://www.griffith.edu.au/arts-education-law/queensland-academy-of-excellence-in-musical-theatre
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/qaemt.griffithuni/
Photo credits: PIF Productions
