When did your passion for choreography begin?
It began with Michael Bennett. He would walk into the rehearsal room, throw off his coat, tell the drummer to play a rhythm, and start to dance. Choreography poured out of him. It was so much fun. The other assistants and I would pick up steps, as he wouldn’t always remember what he did. I could learn it and write it down faster than anyone else.
How does the Australian cast compare with the original?
The original company, for many of us, was playing our lives. We went through a year of development with Michael Bennett. That experience was priceless. In order to get the same incredible moments 36 years later, we have to examine each actor thoroughly. Hopefully, I have done my job well and the cast is very close to the original. I think the Australian group is spot on.
How has the show changed since its inception?
The show has gone round the world and sometimes the actors speak different languages like German or Japanese. But Michael Bennett wanted an audience anywhere to experience what was seen in New York. So the elements (sets, costumes, lights) remain the same. We haven’t changed the show. We want you to see it as it was. It’s a period piece.
How important is it that your performers be a triple threat, and be able to sing, dance and act?
Very. If they start out with one element that is not as strong as the other two, we work on that at the A Chorus Line boot camp.
The role of Connie must feel so personal. How do you pick a Connie?
They usually pick themselves with their talent and personality. After all these years, I have learnt to treat Connie as one of the characters and not me.
What is your favorite song in the show?
“What I Did For Love”. It tells us why we do what we do. We have no regrets because it makes us feel whole as a human being.
How do you feel about the Singapore audience?
I am excited for them to experience the show. I hope they go beneath the surface and see what artists and performers go through. This is dedicated to anyone who ever had to march in step. To anyone who ever had to go for a job interview.
A Chorus Line runs May 4-27, 7:30pm; 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27, 1:30pm at the Sands Theater.
