May 3–10, 2001

arts picks|theater

A Chorus Line

"All you need is the music and the mirror," sings Cassie in A Chorus Line.

Which is one reason Chorus Line, with its minimalist sets and costumes, is destined to be produced ad infinitum by high school drama clubs (that and the chance to caterwaul "What I Did for Love").

But it’s more than just economy of form that has ensured the Pulitzer Prize-winner’s lasting appeal. What gives the musical real resonance is the way it manages, within a simple framework, to honor both the sentiment and the sheer ego that drive showbiz (and showbiz careers).

The signature song "One" sums it up best. At first all cheery razzmatazz, it becomes in the finale a hymn to sheer ego — because when you’re angling for stardom, one is the only number that matters.

And another note on stardom: The Walnut’s production of Chorus Line has been directed and choreographed by Mitzi Hamilton, one of the dancers whose stories were taped by director/ choreographer Michael Bennett to become the basis for the script. Her particular story led to the song "Dance: 10; Looks: 3" — a.k.a. "Tits and Ass" — though she swears in a Walnut newsletter that "I’ve never had my derriere done, never ever!"

—David Warner

May 8-July 1, $8-$50, Walnut St. Theatre, 825 Walnut St., 215-574-3550.