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REVIEW Randall's 'A Chorus Line' is a kick Comment By Angela Decker for the Mail Tribune MailTribune.com By Angela Decker for the Mail Tribune Posted Jul. 30, 2016 at 2:52 PM By Angela Decker for the Mail Tribune Posted Jul. 30, 2016 at 2:52 PM » Social News The Pulitzer-Prize and Tony Award-winning musical “A Chorus Line” reminds us that show business isn’t all glamour and glitz with its story of young dancers hoping for a spot in a Broadway musical. The Randall Theatre’s production of the classic 1975 backstage meta-musical is both intimate and energetic. Michael Bennett’s once-groundbreaking show, with book by James Kirkwood Jr. and Nicholas Dante, music by Marvin Hamlisch and lyrics by Edward Kleban, highlights the often-ignored, hardworking members of the chorus ensemble. “A Chorus Line” takes place entirely during an open call audition for dancer-singers to join a brand new musical opening on Broadway, with many hopefuls competing for only a few open spots. In the Randall production, which opened Friday, the Broadway show’s director, Zach (Roy Von Rains Jr.), and his assistant, Larry (Jeff Mercer), direct the dancers in various moves and teach them to work as an ensemble. The dancers’ desperate aspiration and nerve-jangling tension are palpable as they prepare for the initial cuts, their voices pleading in the song “I Hope I Get It.” After several are cut from the line, the tension and anxiety only increase when Zach tells each cast member to step forward and tell his or her life story, drawing out deeply personal secrets. In this century, it feels strange (and illegal) to insist people talk about their personal life in consideration for a job, but Von Rains manages to do this without seeming creepy. He strikes an artful balance between unseen dictator barking commands off-stage and paternal figure comforting the dancers. Director Kathy Wing assembles a diverse cast in terms of age, appearance, ability and experience. What some lack in dance experience is more than made up through strong acting, enthusiasm and spirit. The cast is large — at one point all 18 actors are on stage — and there are about 14 onstage during most of the show. Featuring synchronized Rockette-style dance numbers, the musical is an ambitious leap for a small community theater, but somehow the Randall pulls it off. Wing and choreographer Deborah Downward make the most of the Randall’s stage, allowing just enough room for the actors to move around fluidly. With a simple bare stage as backdrop, the audience is fully focused on the dancing and the story. Each actor gets his or her moment to shine as the characters recount unhappy childhoods, adolescent angst and their love for dance. Some stories are a little dated with references to "The Ed Sullivan Show" and Robert Goulet. Also, the revelations are less shocking than they may have been in the 1970s. But the script works anyway because the earnest actors commit fully to their roles. Interestingly, the personal stories they tell, rich with heartache and big dreams, are adapted from recordings made in 1974 at a workshop for real-life Broadway dancers. The all-volunteer cast does terrific work. Some of the standouts are Brianna Gowland singing beautifully as Diana, Meagan Kirby playing sassy Val, who finds success through cosmetic enhancement, and Payne Smith, who wows the audience with a solo dance number. Jacob B. Uhlman gives a tender rendering of Paul in an excellent solo performance marred slightly by his sporadic use of an unconvincing Puerto Rican accent. Individually, the actors are charming, but it is during the group numbers, especially the finale featuring the hit song “One Singular Sensation,” that the ensemble truly sparkles. “A Chorus Line” runs through Aug. 21 at 10 E. Third St., Medford. Reserved seating is $18 and can be purchased online at randalltheatre.com or by calling 541-632-3258. Pay-what-you-want rush tickets will be available 30 minutes before each show at the door. Reach Ashland freelance writer Angela Decker at [email protected]. By Angela Decker for the Mail Tribune MailTribune.com By Angela Decker for the Mail Tribune Posted Jul. 30, 2016 at 2:52 PM » Comment or view comments Reader Reaction » STAY INFORMED Email NewsLetter Sign Up Today Sign up for our newsletter and have the top headlines from your community delivered right to your inbox. Southern Oregon Directory Featured Businesses Loading... 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