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Questions and Answers
What elements of traditional musicals did A Chorus Line deliberately omit?
It omitted large scenery, costumes, intermission, and a star performer.
Who were the initial creators of the concept behind A Chorus Line and what was their original intention?
The initial creators were Michon Peacock and Tony Stevens, and they intended to create a theater troupe of Broadway dancers.
What significant event allowed Michael Bennett to develop A Chorus Line into a full production?
Joseph Papp allowed Bennett an unprecedented amount of workshop time to develop the project.
How did the interviews conducted by Bennett contribute to the content of A Chorus Line?
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In what way did Marvin Hamlisch's involvement influence A Chorus Line?
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Study Notes
Overview of A Chorus Line
- Premiered in 1975, A Chorus Line revolutionized musical theater with its ensemble format and minimalistic staging.
- The show features no large scenery, costumes (except for the final number), intermission, or star, setting it apart as an "anti-musical musical."
- Received prestigious accolades including the Pulitzer Prize and nine Tony Awards®.
Origins and Development
- Concept originated from Broadway dancers Michon Peacock and Tony Stevens to address the increasing unemployment among dancers during the early 1970s.
- They approached Michael Bennett, a Tony Award®-winning director and choreographer, to help develop their idea.
- Initial interviews held in January 1974 involved dancers sharing their personal stories, lasting twelve hours.
Collaboration and Creation
- Bennett involved collaborators like Nicholas Dante for the book, Bob Avian for choreography, and Marvin Hamlisch for the score.
- Edward Kleban wrote the lyrics, with James Kirkwood later joining as a co-bookwriter.
- Unique development process resulted in a non-traditional script; roles were organically crafted from true stories of the cast members.
Impact and Reception
- The first workshop occurred on August 4, 1974, leading to subsequent performances at The Public Theater.
- Show debuted on Broadway on July 25, 1975, amidst low theater attendance, which it helped revitalize.
- Attendance rose from 6.6 million to 8.8 million, emphasizing its cultural significance and impact on tourism in New York.
Historical Significance
- A Chorus Line held the title of longest-running musical in Broadway history by 1983, with 3,389 performances, a record until 1997.
- Its themes of universal experiences (memory, awkwardness, loss, hope) resonated with baby boomers and broader audiences, contributing to the show's blockbuster success.
- Continues to influence the representation of dancers and personal storytelling in theater.
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Description
Explore how 'A Chorus Line' revolutionized musical theater upon its 1975 premiere. This quiz delves into its minimalist approach, accolades, and cultural significance, highlighting its unique style that differed from traditional productions. Test your knowledge of this iconic show and its legacy in American culture.
