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‘Chorus Line’ opens YP’s 90th season
By Eric McCrea
Youngstown
Since 1924, Youngstown has witnessed the invention of television, the Great Depression, the second World War, the moon landing, the collapse of the steel industry and 13 presidents. Yet through it all, in times of triumph and grief, the Youngstown Playhouse has been entertaining Valley audiences and uniting a community with the art of theater.
Its epic 90th season began Friday night with the smash musical that delves into the lives of performers, “A Chorus Line.”
The show begins at an audition where Zach, played by director/choreographer David Jendre, is trying to narrow a pool of dancers down to eight, but in a rather unconventional way. With 16 contenders left, he begins an in-depth interview, getting at the core of what makes these candidates want to perform and what makes them who they are.
In a show that requires strong dancers, singers and actors, there were several outstanding cast members.
Matthew Malloy as Mike shines early with his song “I Can Do That.” Though his choreography was not very challenging, his vocal skills were spot on.
Standing next to him was 14-year-old ingenue Snezana Jelic, ironically playing Connie, a 30-year-old stuck in a teenage body. Jelic’s level of talent never fails to amaze. Her performance is beyond her years, with a polished maturity of someone three times her age.
Laura Nicole Fedina as Sheila, Joanna Andrei as Bebe and Emily Shrader as Maggie are a powerhouse trio with “At the Ballet,” a somber song that explores how dance can be a refuge for young girls with troubled home lives. The small group delivers impeccable harmonies without being melodramatic in one of the sober moments of the show.
Don Wolford and Emily Scott play newlyweds Al and Kristine. In their duet, “Sing!,” they deliver precise timing and unique charisma. Wolford, whom I’ve had the privilege of seeing on stage several times over the past year, is impressively transformed in this role. Though his appearance is not drastically changed, he embodies the character so convincingly that it took me a few minutes to recognize him.
Among all this talent, the standout is easily Rosie Jo Neddy as Diana. One of the strongest dancers, she is a spectacular singer, giving a perfect rendition of “Nothing” before leading the cast in an incredibly moving take on “What I Did For Love.”
Emelia R. Sherin dazzles as Val with her sultry version of “Dance: Ten; Looks: Three.” Although she is not the strongest singer, her charm and lighthearted dancing sell the number.
Also impressive were Jacob Butler Mull as Greg, Joshua William Green as Bobby, and the incredible James Major Burns as Richie.
Two of the main roles, however, fell a little short. Stacy Anderson as Cassie was not convincing as the dancer who is too good for the chorus. During her dance solo, it is unclear if she lacked the ability to perform the choreography well, or if the choreography was unable to showcase her abilities. In a lot of ways, she just blended into the background, although it should be mentioned that she had no trouble holding her own on stage with the impressively experienced Jendre.
Nathan M. Tustin as Paul was noticeably subpar when it came to dancing and singing, but there was earnestness in him that came off as endearing, making you want to root for him anyway. His monologue dragged a bit, but it still had a strong impact.
Despite the variations in levels of skill, the cast was fantastic in the company numbers. They had solidity in all aspects, emphasizing the central theme of collaboration. Even the surprise chiropteran arrival could not cause these fine actors to bat an eyelash.
The decision was made to perform without microphones, which is something I applaud, but there were times when soloists were drowned out by the orchestra.
Lighting design by Ellen Licitra paired perfectly with the resurrected set of Paul Kimpel. This homage to the great theater master along with a noticeably consistent increase in attendance is a reminder of the venue’s heyday. A Playhouse renaissance may be on the horizon.
“A Chorus Line” runs Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. For reservations, call 330-788-8739.