"A Chorus Line" marks the triumphant return of PSFs splashy summer musical and the production is Broadway caliber.
From Luis Villabons spot-on choreography to Michael McDonalds picture perfect costumes to the outstanding cast, "A Chorus Line," which runs through July 10 on the Main Stage at the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts on the Center Valley campus of DeSales University, is nearly flawless.
Truly an ensemble show, there isnt a weak link and those actors whose characters get spotlights never fail to shine.
Villabon has recreated the iconic Michael Bennett choreography from the original show and it is breathtaking.
From the organized chaos of "I Hope I Get it" to the perfectly synchronized kicks and formations of "One," the performers are a joy to watch.
Andrew Ruggieris Mike is the first one of the dancers to step out of the line in "I Can Do That" and the number is gleeful, ending with Ruggieri delivering a series of handstands and flips.
Likewise, "And.." culminates with Shaun-Avery Williams Richie doing breathtaking split kicks.
Madison Finney is memorable as Sheila, the tough and sexy dancer of a certain age, who leads the lovely harmonies on "At the Ballet" with Kathryn Brunner as a sadly self-aware Bebe and Emma Vielbig as a vulnerasble Maggie.
Adding a comic note, as well as impeccable timing, are Lauren Emily Alagna and Clint Maddox Thompson as married coupke Kristine and Al, Alagna is delightfully ditzy singing off-key as Thompson tries to back her up in the humorous "Sing."
Milan Magana is devastating as Diane in "Nothing" as well as leading the vocals on the powerful "What I Did for Love."
Always an amusing, albeit racy number, "Dance Ten, Looks Three" doesnt disappoint with Bianca Bulgarelli as a perfectly sassy Val.
Sissy Bell as Cassie stops the show with her fantastic dancing in the showcase number "The Music and the Mirror,"
James Harkness holds it all together as the on stage director Zach exuding a gruff but genuine concern for the dancers.
Luis Villabon, doing double-duty as the show's director, keeps the pace energetic and the two and a half hour intermission-less performance flew by.
Michael McDonalds costumes, particularly for the final number were splendid.
Kudos to Andy Peterson, musical director and conductor, leading the 16 piece orchestra which sounded great.
Performances are 7:30 p.m. June 25, 29-30, July 1 and 6-8; 2 and 7:30 p.m. June 26 and July 2 and 9; 6:30 p.m. June 28 and July 5 and 2 p.m. July 3 and 10.
Meet the actors for an informal talk-back after the shows June 30 and July 7.
The July 6 performance will feature open captioning for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing and audio descriptions for patrons who are blind or visually impaired. Tickets are half price for patrons using these special services. Call box office manager Kyle Schumaker at 610-282-3654, ext. 1, for information.
Masks are required while inside the Labuda Center.
Tickets are $54-$67 for adults; $52-$65 for seniors and $49-$62 for youth.
For information, call 610-282-3192, or go to tickets.desales.edu.