Q&A with A Chorus Line's Nick Nerio

As the summer inches by, the A Chorus Line company draws ever closer to its Japanese debut. Chief among the excited kickliners is the endlessly versatile Nick Nerio, who spent his time on the US tour playing Butch and covering roles like Paul and Richie, but will don Paul’s orange hoodie full-time when the gang heads overseas. Read his blog entry below to find out how we will approach Paul’s gripping monologue each night as well as his surefire way to get free swag from bartenders on this side of the Pacific.

 

Name

Nick Nerio

Role

Paul San Marco

Describe your favorite song / scene / moment in A Chorus Line.

That's a tough question, there are so many spectacular moments in this show. If I had to pick one, I think it would be the first time the full company does the opening combination "away from the mirror." It’s such an exciting moment for both the cast and audience I think. To see all the dancers doing such explosive choreography... it’s great!!!

How many times did you go on for Paul during the US tour of A Chorus Line? What were those experiences like?

I went on for Paul about six times. The first time was pretty nerve-wracking. As an understudy, you are ready at a moment’s notice to go on. But once that time comes, all of the dance numbers and lines come rushing to your head. Once you're onstage, you do your best to be in the correct spot, dancing on the correct foot, etc. The challenge is to really enjoy the experience, and not just be in your head. That's why I am so excited to be playing the role full time. To live in it every show. 

Paul’s monologue in many ways is the heart of A Chorus Line. How do you plan on approaching it each night in Japan?

I'm going to approach it the same way I did on to tour. It’s pretty lengthy, so the challenge is to keep the audience engaged, while not pushing. I just get out there and tell the story. It's so well written, it’s not difficult to get there emotionally, and I think it’s the emotion that the audience connects with. 

Nick Nerio as Paul / Photo by GION.

Have you ever been to Japan? What excites you most about your visit?

No, I have never been that far East. The food, culture, fashion, people, you name it. I'm excited. 

What was the funniest thing that happened to you on or offstage on the first leg of the tour?

I have many funny stories from the road. One that comes to mind involves myself, and three of the other boys… We were out at a bar after the show and decided it would be a good idea to sing the last few bars on "One" in harmony into the mic for the entire bar to hear. We received a rousing round of applause and free drinks all night. It was a night to remember, and we have the t-shirts to prove it. 

Which was your favorite stop on the US tour and why?

I'd have to say Santa Barbara, CA. The weather was perfect. The downtown was quaint with great shopping. We were able to lay out at the beach. And on a day off I visited a few of the local wineries. 

Name one item you could not have lived without while on the road.

My iPod. 

If you could go back in time and catch any Broadway show what would it be and why?

West Side Story. I'd love to see the cast dance that stunning choreography just as Robbins set it. 

What is your favorite showtune and why?

This question is so hard for me to answer. I love SO MANY showtunes! But, I'm going to go with "Edelweiss" from The Sound of Music. I am a huge Rodgers and Hammerstein fan. And this is the last song that they wrote together. It’s such a simple, sweet melody and makes me smile every time I hear it. 

What are the top five most listened to songs on your iPod?

I don't know if these are technically the top five, but they are five I enjoy listening to. I have a very eclectic taste in music.

1.     "Hair" - Lady Gaga

2.     "Try A Little Tenderness" - Otis Redding

3.     "If It Kills Me" - Jason Mraz

4.     "PYT" - Michael Jackson

5.     "I Don't Know What It Is" - Rufus Wainwright

Do you have any pop culture guilty pleasures?

Yes. I read perezhilton.com daily and enjoy So You Think You Can Dance. 

The world is dying to know… what have you been doing in your downtime before the Japanese engagement of A Chorus Line?

I have been enjoying summer in New York City. Taking dance class, spending time in Central Park, hanging out with friends. I've also done some traveling. Visited my family in Texas and attended a friend's wedding in Los Angeles. 

Q&A with A Chorus Line's Carleigh Bettiol

The US tour of A Chorus Line may have wrapped a few weeks ago, but that only means a new chapter is unfolding for the company as many of them will be making the trip to Tokyo, Japan in July. Several of the US company members will be taking on new roles for the Japanese engagement, including the impossibly talented Carleigh Bettiol. Carleigh, who previously played the graceful Lois and understudied several other roles, will assume the role of Cassie full-time when the show heads overseas. Read on to learn what excites her most about stepping into that famous red dress and how she is spending her break (or lack thereof!) in the city.

Name

Carleigh Bettiol

Role

Cassie

Describe your favorite song / scene / moment in A Chorus Line.

My favorite moment in A Chorus Line is the "away from the mirror" section. It is the first and only time the entire company does the opening combination all together in the show and the build up to it makes it so exciting!

You played Lois and covered several roles (including Cassie) during the US tour but will be taking on the role of Cassie full time for Japan. What excites you the most about playing Cassie?

I am excited to play Cassie full time because I think it will give me a new perspective on the role. Understudying and performing the role makes you feel completely different than having the part as your own and performing it. As an understudy you are always thinking about what comes next because you don't go on all of the time. You are constantly thinking about things. Having a role as your own allows you to find comfort in your movements and songs so that you are free to grow as a performer each time you do the show rather than thinking about where to go or what to do next! I hope that playing the part of Cassie full time will bring a lot of new and good things to the role that I haven't quite found yet!

Carleigh Bettiol as Cassie / Photo by GION.

Have you ever been to Japan? Are you looking forward to playing this show for a foreign audience?

No, I have never been to Japan. I have never really been overseas so yes, I am extremely excited and honored to perform for a foreign audience! I am excited to see how the Japanese audience reacts to the show and to the cast.

What was the funniest thing that happened to you on or offstage on the first leg of the tour?

The funniest thing that happened to me during the first leg of the tour happened both on and offstage! I got very sick in December and completely lost my voice so the female swing had to go on for me. She hadn't received her own pair of ballet slippers yet so she had to use mine but her feet are MUCH smaller than mine. She tied the elastic on them a lot tighter than I had to when I wore them. I was back in the show for the first time since being sick and our stage manager called places and I was not ready! I finally started to put on my ballet slippers as the pre-show speaker was talking and realized that they were tied so tight that I couldn't get them on! They were knotted and I couldn't get one of the knots out! By the time we were told to go on the stage, I had only gotten one of the knots out of one of the shoes so I ran out on the stage with one shoe on and one shoe in my hand and just kept running until I was off of the other side of the stage. I had to watch the first part of the opening in the wings while I scurried to get the other knot out!

Which was your favorite stop on the tour and why?

My favorite stop on the tour was Fort Worth, TX. We played Bass Hall which is one of the most gorgeous theaters I have ever seen. The outside of it has beautiful statues with gold detail. It was also located right in the middle of downtown Fort Worth where great restaurants, little boutiques, outdoor entertainment, and the best gelato I've ever had were in walking distance! The weather was beautiful and we were there for a full week so we were really able to enjoy the city.

Name one item you could not have lived without while on the road.

I could not have lived without my computer while on tour. It was a way for me to see my family via Skype when I was away for months at a time. It also helped me to find a lot of different restaurants and fun activities in each area we stopped at!

If you could go back in time and catch any Broadway show what would it be and why?

If I could go back in time and catch any Broadway show it would be Show Boat. The music and story are so beautiful and the dancing always looked like a blast when I would watch the movie.

What is your favorite showtune and why?

I don't have one favorite show tune. There are so many songs that are fantastic that are very different from each other but are equally as great. I love some of the music from contemporary musicals just as much as from musicals from the 1920s.

What are the top five most listened to songs on your iPod?

According to my iPod, the top five songs I listen to are: “Gravity” by Sara Bareilles, “Between the Lines” by Sara Bareilles, “To Make You Feel My Love” by Adele, “Chasing Pavements” by Adele, and “One Sweet Love” by Sara Bareilles. It is true that I LOVE the music of Sara Bareilles and Adele, however, I listen to all different kinds of music. I have numerous soundtracks from Broadway shows on my iPod as well as music from artists such as Jessie J, Barbara Streisand, Rihanna, Billy Joel, Kenny Chesney, Dave Matthews Band, Fabolous, India Arie, and Louis Armstrong.

Do you have any pop culture guilty pleasures?

My pop culture guilty pleasure is "Glee." When the show first came out I thought it was too cheesy for me to get into and now I DVR every episode!

The world is dying to know… what are you doing in your downtime before the Japanese engagement of A Chorus Line?

In my downtime before Japan I have been auditioning, cocktail waitressing, and spending time with family and friends. There hasn't been much "downtime" at all actually...my schedule has been just as busy as when I was doing ACL but being busy is a good thing!

Q&A with Erica Cenci (Bebe)

We round out our week of rapid-fire ACL cast Q&As by chatting with Erica Cenci. Erica, who plays the wide-eyed Bebe on the line, is feeling the hometown love at the moment. As a native Jersey girl, she has the distinct pleasure of wrapping up her time with the show by playing Newark, NJ. As soon as you finish reading what Erica’s favorite moments on the tour have been and what got her into dance in the first place, run (don’t walk) to NJPAC because there are only 4 more chances to see A Chorus Line before it heads to Japan!

Name

Erica Cenci

Role

Bebe Benzenheimer

Describe your favorite song / scene / moment in A Chorus Line.

My favorite part of the show is the name section, when every person gets a chance to step forward and introduce themselves to Zach. It’s the first moment you get to see each of the characters as individuals and how they are doing that day: some are nervous, some are excited, some are brand new to auditioning, some are not, etc.

In the show, Bebe shares with Zach the experiences in her past that inspired her to dance. What inspired you in your younger years to want to dance / perform?

I always had a very active imagination and dancing proved to be an easy outlet for my creativity. It didn’t hurt that at the end of the year I got to play dress up and put on a pretty costume!

How does it feel to be finishing up the tour in your home state?!

It is an amazing feeling! I was able to reach out to a lot of my friends, family and teachers and invite them to come see what I’ve been a part of this year. While it will be nerve wracking, I can’t help but feel like I have some sort of home field advantage… NJ audiences are the best!

What was the funniest thing that happened to you on or offstage on the tour?

We took a group trip to a haunted house in Ohio around Halloween and our bus driver Wayne came along. He knew how easily scared I am and kept telling the monsters and creepers inside the haunted house to say my name and bother me. Needless to say, I’ve never been so scared in my life! Clearly I wasn’t laughing at the time, but now I can look at the pictures of that night and laugh.

Which was your favorite stop on the tour and why?

Beaver Creek, Colorado. It was only for one night, and we had almost no time to walk around, but it was winter and we stayed very close to the ski slopes! I love to ski and had never been to Colorado, so I was in heaven! The theatre was beautiful and in the middle of a very ritzy ski resort. I really didn’t want to get back on the bus the next morning!

Name one item you could not have lived without while on the road.

My copy of The New Yorker! I loved still feeling somewhat connected to New York and without it the bus rides would have been unbearable!

If you could go back in time and catch any Broadway show what would it be and why?

Gypsy with Ethel Merman. Listening to her voice on CD is one thing, but I would love to experience her power in person.

What is your favorite show tune and why?

This question is too hard to answer! I would have to say I have different favorite songs based on my moods. When I am testy and worked up I love listening to something with a driving beat and fast lyrics, say Next to Normal. But when I am happy and loving life I prefer something with tight harmonies and beautiful melodies, say Sunday in the Park with George.

What are the top five most listened to songs on your iPod?

“Nobody’s Home” - Avril Lavigne, “Accidentally in Love” - Counting Crows, “Better Off” - Ashley Simpson (I clearly need help!), “Things to Come” - Martin Sexton, “Breakaway” - Kelly Clarkson

Do you have any pop culture guilty pleasures?

Wedding reality shows and food reality shows. I become immovable; impossibly glued to my TV.

The world is dying to know… what are your plans for after A Chorus Line?

BROADWAY! Just kidding… I will spend time settling into my new apartment in NYC and getting back into dance class.

Q&A with Julia Freyer (Judy)

What’s tall, funny and smiles all over? Judy Turner of course! But those descriptors could just as easily be applied to the wonderful young actress who has been playing that role in A Chorus Line since October, Julia Freyer. Julia has a side-splitting take on one of the more outspoken characters on the line and she shares here what she will miss most about embodying this loveable goofball night after night. She also reveals her love for all things Billy Joel, iPhone and, yes, Zefron. Sounds about right!

Name

Julia Freyer

Role

Number 23, Judy Turner!

Describe your favorite song / scene / moment in A Chorus Line.

There are so many beautiful moments! I love the “Ballet Blaze” - the moment in At The Ballet when as the music swells, Maggie reaches her big, gorgeous vocal moment, the mirrors flip around, the lights change and all of us on the line turn front and do a hot few counts of ballet. I also love the “And here we go….” moment at the end of the opening after we give Larry our headshots. Breathe, adjust the leotard, wipe the forehead sweat, deeper breath and hit the logo pose!

Judy Turner must be a very enjoyable character to play night after night. What aspect of her will you miss the most when you finish the tour?

I am going to miss Judy as a human being - she is this positive ray of light on the line. I am totally, 100% happy when I am in Judy Turner mode. I think a great deal of that is due to the fact she is such a genuine person. Judy always THROWS herself fully into everything she does and when it backfires, she has the ability to laugh at herself. I LOVE that about her. I also think Judy is awed by each person at the audition and wants everyone to succeed… so to be honest, I am going to miss having “front row seats” to everyone’s audition!! Also, I’m going to miss standing pigeon-toed and knock-kneed… it’s been fun trying to figure out how many ways I can contort my ankles!

Your Tina Turner is funnier than any we have ever seen. From where did you draw your spot-on Tina impersonation?

The first day of rehearsal I just pictured Tina Turner in my head from “Diva” specials on VH1 and tried my best to imitate the way she throws her body around. Baayork had to rein me in… a little too much Proud Mary was pouring out of me.

What was the funniest thing that happened to you on or offstage on the tour?

Gosh, I laugh a lot. Erica Cenci falling off the hotel bed in Reno due to a bad case of the burps was a good laugh. Also, Paul Flanagan’s morning bed-head brings me great amounts of joy.

Which was your favorite stop on the tour and why?

Early on in tour, we played Penn State University (my alma mater!). It was THE BEST DAY. A bunch of my best friends / classmates came back to PSU from New York on the Megabus to see the show. At night, A Chorus Line performed in the theatre on campus my friends and I used to see tours at while we were still in school. I was pinching myself before the show to believe it was actually happening! The show was totally bizarre, out of body and an incredibly special experience. After the show, I took the cast out to experience a little Penn State night-life… one cast member was quoted to say, “Penn State is the new Vegas.”

Name one item you could not have lived without while on the road.

My mom and my boyfriend. But since they aren’t items, I’ll go with my iPhone. I judge myself so harshly for choosing technology! But, it’s made staying in contact with everyone from home so much easier. Plus, “Words with Friends” helps pass time on the bus, the “Yelp” application helps find anything we need in each new city AND my iPhone allows me to “like” Facebook statuses in such a timely manner!!

If you could go back in time and catch any Broadway show what would it be and why?

Movin’ Out! It wasn’t that long ago, but it is my all-time favorite… if I could time travel, I would just sit in the theatre and watch it over and over again because it makes me so happy. There is something about the combination of Twyla Tharp direction / choreography set to the tune of Billy Joel music that just is IT. I would kill to just step, touch in the back of a Movin’ Out production.

What is your favorite showtune and why?

Oh, it always changes! A constant favorite is “Johanna” from Sweeney Todd—but like the 3rd time it is sung in the show (I fondly call it “Track 5”) when everyone (Sweeney, Anthony, Johanna, the Beggar Woman) joins in. It’s dramatic musical theatre gold. My friends and I like to sing along to it in the car and play every role… CITY ON FIREEEEEE!

What are the top five most listened to songs on your iPod?

They are all mellow lately because my iPod is always on when I sleep on the bus…
1. “Vienna” by Billy Joel
2. “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles
3. “Stop This Train” by John Mayer (the “Where The Light Is” version)
4. “Set Fire to the Rain” by Adele (the boys in our show turned me onto her new CD… AMAZING)
5. “So Far Away” by Carole King

Do you have any pop culture guilty pleasures?

Zac Efron.

The world is dying to know… what are your plans for after A Chorus Line?

First, I am going grocery shopping… I miss quality time in the kitchen so much!

Q&A with Rylyn Juliano (Cassie)

Over the course of our A Chorus Line tour, Rylyn Juliano has taken a role that many actors twice her age find incredibly challenging and made it look altogether effortless. But that doesn’t mean it has been! As the past-her-prime dancer Cassie Ferguson, Rylyn carried more than her fair share of the show’s dramatic weight but also had the task of pulling the behemoth dance solo in “The Music and the Mirror” out of her back pocket every day (sometimes twice!). Read on to find out how she conditioned herself for these responsibilities and how her Cassie changed since the tour’s premiere.

Name

Rylyn Juliano

Role

Cassie

Describe your favorite song / scene / moment in A Chorus Line.

I would have to say my favorite song in the entire show has, and always will be, “At the Ballet.” I have always loved that song and remember listening to it and dancing around my family room to it when I was really little. It is just so beautiful.

Cassie must be a very challenging role to play… dramatically, vocally and physically. What part of playing her did you find the most challenging?

I think all aspects of the character have presented their own challenges. Dramatically: being able to keep the moments fresh and the scenes in the moment, finding new thoughts and feelings for the character has been something I have truly enjoyed and will miss exploring. Vocally: pacing myself knowing when it is okay to go out and have fun with the cast and when it is most important to conserve for the show. And Physically: Getting off that bus and having the ethic to work out, warm up and do the show. These are all life lessons that I have been so fortunate to learn while being on tour. So invaluable!

How did your Cassie evolve over the course of the tour?

The dance became my own while staying within the Bennett technique. It has been so wonderful to find new thoughts and feelings to fuel the intention of the dance. Also my relationship with Zach has become so much more than I could have ever imagined. Being on stage with Ryan every night and being able to trust one another the way we do is, professionally, a real treat and I feel so fortunate to have gone through everything I have with him right there beside me.

What was the funniest thing that happened to you on or offstage on the tour?

Too many... but if I had to pick one it would be when Frank (David Glenwright) slid on his new shoes and did a full on baseball slide into his groups of four in the opening. Don and I could barely keep it together!

Which was your favorite stop on the tour and why?

The entire West Coast. It was my first time out there and I fell in love! It was not too bad calling home in January and hearing about the snow storms of upstate NY while lounging by the pool with the cast! Also, one of my very best friends moved out there and I was able to spend a bunch of time with her! So beautiful and I cannot wait to get back there!

Name one item you could not have lived without while on the road.

My iPhone, and all that goes with it! NY Times app, Pandora Radio and of course the Around Me app to get me to the closest Starbucks!

If you could go back in time and catch any Broadway show what would it be and why?

Honestly I would LOVE to be able to see A Chorus Line. It is so iconic and it would be amazing to see the original cast, especially after working with Baayork.

What is your favorite showtune and why?

“Send in the Clowns”… I finally saw A Little Night Music right before rehearsals and seeing Bernadette Peters perform this song was something I will never forget. She is terrific and truly inspiring.

What are the top five most listened to songs on your iPod?

Okay…
“Dog Days are Over” - Florence and the Machine
“Out of My League” - Stephen Speaks
“Love Me Do” - The Beatles
“Little Secrets” - Passion Pit
“Don’t Stop the Music” - Jamie Cullum

Do you have any pop culture guilty pleasures?

Pretty Little Liars. Get into it!!!!!

The world is dying to know… what are your plans for after A Chorus Line?

Moving back to NY!!! I will be spending the summer catching up with friends and family and teaching at my Mom’s dance studio for her Summer Season. And of course, AUDITIONING!

Q&A with Hardy Weaver

If George Hamilton could be a movie star, then Hardy Weaver could be… well, one of the comedic highlights of A Chorus Line. As the wonderfully droll Bobby, Weaver has epitomized wit and mischief every night for the past seven months thanks in no small part to the side-splitting monologue he has perfected for his character. In this blog entry, Hardy gives us a glimpse of what goes into making that scene so formulaically funny and also shares how he and Bobby were kindred troublemaking spirits as children.

Name

Matthew Hardy Weaver (the First)

Role

Bobby

Describe your favorite song / scene / moment in A Chorus Line.

I love being a part of the final kick line. The first time we did it, I was boo-hooing with a goofy smile on my face. It’s an amazing feeling being part of such an iconic and recognizable moment in musical theatre history.

Monologues are tricky to pull off for any actor, but many people might be surprised to know there’s just as much work that goes into comedic monologues as in dramatic monologues. What were your secrets for keeping Bobby’s monologue fresh over the course of the tour?

Comedy is such a delicate thing. People think you can get up and say a funny line and people will automatically laugh. Not the case. Timing is so important and if you deliver a punch line a second too early or too late, it bombs. My biggest “secret” is studying comedic geniuses. Since the age of 10 I’ve watched shows such as I Love Lucy and Golden Girls. Yes, I do watch them for entertainment, but I really do study these amazing actors and how they set up, deliver, and play comedy. My cast-mates sometimes catch me on the bus mouthing a scene between Lucy and Ethel or Dorothy and Rose. When it comes to monologues, comedic or dramatic, I always think of it like jazz music: you start in one place and you never know where you will end up. You have to be willing to go with the flow and embrace the fact that new reactions and intentions might come out of nowhere. I love it.

As a child, were you ever as outlandish as Bobby?

Oh yes! Before we started rehearsals, I was trying to figure out Bobby and I made a list of all the weird things I did as a child. I went through a phase where I wanted my Doritos toasted, so I would individually burn them to a crisp with a lighter. I tried to make a lizard into a paratrooper by tying a mini parachute to it and having it float down from my clubhouse. And, like Bobby, I had many staged productions. There’s many a photo of me and my childhood friends putting on an original production of “The G.I. and the Olympic Swimmer Attack Boppo, the Defenseless Clown”.

What was the funniest thing that happened to you on or offstage on the tour?

Julia Freyer. She is the funniest thing that has happened to me on tour. It’s tough to make me truly laugh out loud, but she is able to have me in stitches at the drop of a hat. Curse you, Judy Turner.

Which was your favorite stop on the tour and why?

Our recent stop in Baton Rouge was wonderful, because I had so many family and friends from New Orleans up to see the show (in a fancy limo bus, mind you). Kayaking on the Pacific in Santa Barbara and visiting Lincoln’s home and museum in Springfield, Illinois also top my list.

Hardy Weaver as Bobby in A CHORUS LINE
Photo by Phil Martin

Name one item you could not have lived without while on the road.

My iPod. Singing is the one thing I cannot go a day without doing. Before every show I need to vocally warm up, but I also need to sing and lose myself in some other moment.

If you could go back in time and catch any Broadway show what would it be and why?

Ay Chihuahua, this is tough. I would kill to have been at any premiere of a Sondheim show (namely Sunday in the Park with George and Sweeney Todd). I would love to have seen the original production and cast of Ragtime. What a show.

What is your favorite showtune and why?

“How Glory Goes” from Floyd Collins. I did the show and played Floyd my senior year of high school and didn’t realize fully, at the time, what a magical opportunity I was given. It is a big dream of mine to revisit this show and that song.

What are the top five most listened to songs on your iPod?

1. “Therapy” by India.Arie
2. “Glitter in the Air” by P!nk
3. “Up the Ladder to the Roof” sung by Sherie Rene Scott
4. “Hang With Me” by Robyn
5. “Shark in the Water” by V.V. Brown

Do you have any pop culture guilty pleasures?

America’s Next Top Model. My college friends and I still do photo shoots. You wanna be on top?

The world is dying to know… what are your plans for after A Chorus Line?

My plan is to stay in New York for a week or two and visit with friends and then head back to my beautiful home city of New Orleans and take some time to enjoy home, family, and friends. There is no city like it and I encourage everyone to take a trip down to the Crescent City. I’m planning on spending most of the summer there and then moving back up to New York. Back to a life of auditioning!

It’s the final week of U.S. performances on the A Chorus Line tour! We at the On the Line blog wanted to take this opportunity to flood you, dear reader, with a week’s worth of brand new cast member entries. First up is the incomparable Netanel Bellaishe, our ever fearless dance captain who you may more immediately recognize as Larry, Zach’s dutiful assistant. The show doesn’t give you very many opportunities to get to know Larry… and we wanted to rectify that issue. Read on to learn about Netanel’s favorite moments in the show and what makes his Larry tick.

Name

Netanel Bellaishe

Role

Larry

Describe your favorite song / scene / moment in A Chorus Line.

I think I’d have to say my favorite moment in the show is the Cassie scene / dance. Honestly Cassie would have to be my dream role in this show, funny enough. The character of Cassie and I share a common truth about the stage. This urge to be on it as a platform of giving yourself to the audience.

I always say one’s purpose in life is invested in others. Cassie discovers that the hard way. Failing to become a “star” admitting she is but a dancer. Just wishes for a chance to dance for someone. In other words, to be given the privilege to give. That about sums up why I’m in the business.

Larry is the one featured player in A Chorus Line who is integral to the plot, yet the audience does not get to learn a lot about. What about your Larry would readers be surprised to know?

My Larry has big plans to accomplish. Being Zach’s right hand is highly appreciated by Larry, however he sees himself as no less of a choreographer and a director than Zach. Larry’s intentions are to help Zach put on this show and then start his own company. He also feels like his career as a performer is not over yet. As I said, Larry has big plans… He is just waiting for the right moment. 

You have to keep the company on its toes night after night as dance captain. There are several varieties of dance demonstrated throughout the show. Which style comes most naturally to the cast and which ones require a little extra upkeep?

“Naturally” is a very tricky word when dealing with dance captaining :) The hard task is to allow the space for the “self” of every dancer within the tight boundaries of the choreography. To answer the question, I would say the classical ballet parts of the show, both in the opening and in the song “At the Ballet,” are the easiest to maintain, for classical ballet is very specific already and a trained dancer is aware of those by default. On top of those ballet specifics come the Bennett specifics, mainly in upper body, whereas the opening for example is pure Bennett style head to toe which makes it harder to maintain.

What was the funniest thing that happened to you on or offstage on the tour?

Well here’s a tale that was not funny at the time but is very funny looking back. Santa Barbara, a day on the beach with Suzanna, Gaspare, Jessi and I. Jessi decides to go for a walk on the beach alone, leaving her stuff with us. So far so normal right? Well, 2 hours pass, the sun is coming down, we start to get hungry and realize there is no sign of Jessi! Her cell phone, wallet, shoes, all left with us. After a quick search on the shore, we decide to leave a note in her shoes with Suzanna’s phone number, hoping she’ll get to it before someone else does, and went about grabbing a bite. All quite worried, we had about four margaritas, start to walk back to the beach and are now very worried as Jessi finally calls saying, “Hey guys! I lost track of time! It wasn’t till the sun came down that I realized I’d been away for a long time!”

How do you not realize you’ve been gone for 3 hours?!?!?

Ho well that’s part of Jessi’s charm :)

Which was your favorite stop on the tour and why?

San Francisco! While spending 3 days off in San Fran, I just had the greatest time mostly with me, myself and I. I took ballet classes at a dance studio right by the hotel every day, I saw The Rock with a few cast members, I took the shuttle to Sausalito, saw the Golden Gate, had an $80 meal in an amazing Italian restaurant, spoke to locals and more... Loved every moment! 

Name one item you could not have lived without while on the road.

My Israeli Turkish Coffee! Tour life made me really flexible, but one thing I couldn’t adjust to is the American coffee!!! So I traveled with 20 packs of ground Turkish coffee made in Israel, an electric kettle and my unique coffee glass from Israel, wrapped inside a traveling mug :) Some things you just can’t change :)

If you could go back in time and catch any Broadway show what would it be and why?

Pal Joey! Gene Kelly’s debut. Everything that man ever did is sheer perfection in my eyes. When he danced it was a glorious affirmation of everything that it means to be alive! Gene and I spent a lot of quality time on the tour bus. I believed I watched most of his films several times, and I look up to him in many ways.

What is your favorite showtune and why? 

“What I Did for Love” would have to be it. I do have a strong connection to what the song is saying, being an aging dancer ;) However the real reason is that during the show, come this song, I am in the quick change room with Gaspare and Ryan, and I enjoy singing along an octave above into Gaspare’s ear and watch him get annoyed every time! While Ryan helps me with some harmonies :))
 
What are the top five most listened to songs on your iPod?

1. The recording of my voice lesson that I vocalize with every day 2. The recording I did of our musicians Sean (flute) and Clair (trombone) of a Hebrew Israeli musical song called “There’s a Place”
3,4,5. My ballet class music playlist that I warm up to every day. Fascinating I know! :)

Do you have any pop culture guilty pleasures?

I proudly admit I do not! I’m old school... very :)

The world is dying to know… what are your plans for after A Chorus Line?

Save the world, of course! And apart from that go visit my family in Israel that I haven’t seen in a year! I try not to plan beyond that. I trust my destiny to reveal itself to me at the right moment. I go where I’m needed most. May the Force be with us all!!! ;))))

A Chorus Line's Cassandra Hlong (Connie)

Check out this video featuring A Chorus Line's Cassandra Hlong, who plays the role of Connie and gives a shout-out to North Carolina! The tour will perform at The Walker Center in Wilkesboro on April 7, 2011!



For tickets and more information, visit www.achorusline.com.

A Chorus Line's Emily Rice (Vicki)

Watch A Chorus Line's Emily Rice give a shout-out to Fort Worth, Texas, where the show will play from March 29 - April 3, 2011 at Bass Performance Hall!



For tickets and more information, please visit www.achorusline.com.

A Chorus Line's Hardy Weaver (Bobby)

A Chorus Line's Hardy Weaver, who plays the role of Bobby, names one reason why you should see the show! Click to watch his video now!



For more information about the national tour, visit the official website at www.achorusline.com.

Q&A with Eric Mann

The ever-talented Eric Mann has the enviable task of kicking off the chorus line every night our dancers hit the boards with his energetic solo “I Can Do That” as the passionate Mike Costa. In our Q&A with Eric below, he delves into the differences between the fiery Italian he plays onstage and the charming guy he is off. He also reveals his inner bookworm, becomes the 90,000th cast member to rave about Charleston, South Carolina, and infers you should never give Bebe Benzenheimer a drink… unless you’re looking for sheer entertainment.

Name

Eric Mann

Role

Mike Costa

Describe your favorite song / scene / moment in A Chorus Line.

My favorite dance number is the Fourth Montage – I love the funky '70s choreography, it’s just plain fun and exciting. As for my favorite moment, it is really brief, but I love when we charge forward with our pictures/resumes and the lights fade to black and then the lights come up immediately with our headshots right in front of our face. It is such a powerful moment.

Mike is one of the first people Zach pulls out of the line to talk about his life. What is it like kicking off the characters’ individual scenes each night with “I Can Do That”?

Ah, I would say it is definitely a mixture of anxiety and excitement. It’s nerve-racking because Mike is the FIRST and has to set the tone of show. But also it is a chance for the audience to relax into the show, which is fun because I get to help welcome the audience into this show that is about real people. The first part of A Chorus Line is this real intense audition setting, but then with “I Can Do That,” it helps the audience see that this still is a piece of theatre and they are here to be entertained. Luckily, I love doing the number and try to bring new excitement to it every night.

What are the parts of Mike’s character that you can relate to without even trying and what are the parts of his character that require a bit more imagination on your part?

I love Mike! I immediately relate to Mike’s passion and fiery spirit. I also love his “I Can Do That” attitude, with anything that you throw at him, he can do – and do it well! I strive to be like this in my life, onstage and off. As for the parts that require a bit more imagination, I would say that his outbursts are a little different from mine – his are more explosive and mine are more elongated. What’s funny is that as this tour continues I see myself more and more like Mike, or maybe it’s the other way around!

What is the funniest thing that has happened to you on or offstage on the tour?

Anytime Erica Cenci is at the bar.

Which past tour stop has been your favorite thus far and why?

I really have loved the cities on the west coast, but I also really loved Charleston, South Carolina. Charleston is this incredibly beautiful city that captures the essence of the past – it’s really surreal. We rode bikes around the city and it was absolutely awesome.

Eric Mann as Mike in A CHORUS LINE
Photo by Phil Martin

Name one item you can’t live without while on the road.

My Kindle – I love to read.

If you could go back in time and catch any Broadway show what would it be and why?

Well, my favorite musical of all time is Sondheim’s Merrily We Roll Along (so I would love to go back and see the revival production), but as far as one that I would have to see, I would see the original production of Oklahoma!. This musical really changed how musical comedies were done and it was the beginning of all modern musicals. I think it would be awesome to see people’s reactions and what it was like to experience something so groundbreaking.

What is your favorite showtune and why?

Hmm… basically anything Jason Robert Brown or Sondheim. Their music is awesome!

What are the top five most listened to songs on your iPod?

1. “Fire and Rain” – James Taylor
2. “Don’t Stop the Music” – Jamie Cullum
3. “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” – Frank Sinatra
4. “New York State of Mind” – Billy Joel
5. “Just the Way You Are” – Bruno Mars

Do you have any pop culture guilty pleasures?

Haha! I might have to say that I have a HUGE guilty pleasure with '90s sitcoms – Seinfeld, Home Improvement, That '70s Show, etc. I just love the writing.

If you had to pick just one, would you describe yourself as peripatetic, poetic or chic? Why?

Peripatetic (I had to look it up – it means traveling from place to place) – this is exactly me. I’m never in one place too long. Always on the go, especially now on tour!

A Chorus Line's Eric Carsia (Don)

Watch Eric Carsia's shout-out to the State Theatre in New Brunswick, New Jersey! A Chorus Line will perform at the State Theatre on March 10, 2011.



For more information about the national tour, visit the official website at www.achorusline.com.

A Chorus Line's Gaspare DiBlasi (Paul)

Gaspare DiBlasi, who plays "Paul" in the 2010-2011 national tour of A CHORUS LINE, gives a shout-out to Brooklyn, New York. For tickets and more information, visit http://www.achorusline.com.

We Have a Winner!

Congratulations to Cindy H., who won A Chorus Line's Chattanooga ticket giveaway! Cindy will receive a pair of tickets to the Tuesday, March 15th performance at Memorial Auditorium.

Thanks to all who entered the giveaway! Tickets are still available for purchase. All seats are reserved from $31.50 to $56.50 plus convenience fees.

3 EASY WAYS TO ORDER:
1. ONLINE: Click here to buy tickets.
2. BY PHONE: Call (423) 642-TIXS (8497).
3. IN PERSON: Visit the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium Box Office located at 399 McCallie Avenue in Chattanooga, TN. Box Office hours: Monday - Friday, 10 AM to 6:30 PM (EST).

Suzanna Dupree as Sheila in A CHORUS LINE
Photo by Phil Martin

WWW.ACHORUSLINE.COM

BUY TICKETS TO A CHORUS LINE IN CHATTANOOGA NOW!

On the Line with Baayork Lee: The Cultural Impact of A Chorus Line

In the latest episode of "On the Line with Baayork Lee," Baayork talks about how the original Broadway production of A Chorus Line influenced America and how, 35 years later, the show still impacts the theatre and TV industries, including its influences on reality shows such as "So You Think You Can Dance" and "Dancing With The Stars." Watch "On the Line with Baayork Lee" video below!



For more information about the national tour, visit the official website at www.achorusline.com.

Q&A with Gina Duci

Reviews on the road have called her “charming, funny and very, very talented” and have labeled her two solos in A CHORUS LINE the “vocal standouts” of the entire show, but Gina Duci, who plays the feisty Diana Morales, has not let any of that praise go to her head. Case in point: her wonderfully easygoing demeanor in the blog post below. In it, Gina talks about her approach to the role of Diana and some of the things that inspire her while she’s not busy being the playing her sassy Puerto Rican alter ego.

 

Name

Gina Duci

Role

Diana Morales

Describe your favorite song/scene moment in A Chorus Line.

I would have to say that my favorite moment is the alternative scene into “What I Did for Love.” Being able to look around at all my cast members’ faces and say my mini-monologue about "When I used to stand outside of that stage door..." is a moment that brings us all back home and where we came from and that we all used to stand outside of the stage door. Hell, I still do when I go see shows on Broadway! Haha. It's a moment that reminds me every night that I am so lucky to be able to do what I love and share the stage with a beautiful group of people.

The song "Nothing" is such a great example of a song written for a true singer / actor. Do you have any tricks for keeping that song and the story it tells fresh each night?

Actually, my trick is being me! Because that was me in acting class! I always thought those exercises were stupid and I didn't understand how standing like a tree for 20 minutes was going to teach me anything! Haha. I would question myself and wonder if I was cut out for this business because I could never commit myself to being a basketball! I was a person who had feelings, not an object. So, I just channel my feelings then in acting class and the teachers who taught them.

Not only does Diana have "Nothing" on her plate, she also pulls lead vocals on "What I Did For Love." What does that song mean to you personally and how do you keep up with the vocal demands of the show for your character?

The song means exactly what it says. I am so fortunate that I have been given the opportunity to do what I love to do. That if today it was taken away from me all I can do is look forward to tomorrow and what it may bring, but I will never forget what it is that I love and am thankful that I had the chance to experience and share it.

Vocally, I just try to rest after shows and make sure I warm up in the morning even before I talk. I take showers in the morning so I normally warm up in the shower. The voice is a muscle and needs to be warmed before it is used. I mean, a runner wouldn't run a marathon as soon as they rolled out of bed so I've learned that the voice needs to be treated the same.

What is the funniest thing that has happened to you on or offstage on the tour?

Oh dear, WELL!!! During the montage section while Judy is singing and the cast is in a clump upstage left, a certain someone (and they know who they are!!) stands in front of me, and let out the nastiest smelling fart I have ever smelt!!! I mean, it was like something died inside of them!! And I wanted to kill them! But, it did make me laugh.

Which past tour stop has been your favorite thus far and why?

Without question! It was Palm Desert. We had beautiful weather, beautiful hotel, beautiful theater, beautiful scenery, just beautiful!!

Name one item you can’t live without while on the road.

My iPhone, I’d be lost! It keeps me in touch with my boyfriend, family and friends, I play games on it and listen to Pandora. It has gotten me through some looooong bus rides.

If you could go back in time and catch one Broadway show what would it be and why?

I'd have to say Funny Girl. To see Barbra Streisand in that role would have been a true gift I'm sure! And Fanny Brice is my other dream role! (Diana was also my dream role.)

What is your favorite showtune and why?

Oooooo this is rough!  Well, honestly, "What I Did For Love" has always been a favorite! I sang it as my audition song when I was 10 till I was 15 probably! Haha.  Also, "People" from Funny Girl. It is such a beautiful song and has always been a favorite. Also, the song "Calm" from the show Ordinary Days by Adam Gwon. It is so funny and the most fun to sing/act.

What are the top five most listened to song on your iPod?

Oooooooooo that's hard too! Ok, this is musicals excluded!

1. India Arie - "Therapy"

2. Billy Joel - "Just The Way You Are"

3. Alicia Keys - "Doesn't Mean Anything"

4. Pink - "Glitter in the Air"

5. Michael Jackson - "The Way You Make Me Feel" (really any of his songs)

Do you have any pop culture guilty pleasures?

Not really, I don't have the time to watch much TV, but when I do, I will say that I enjoy an episode of "The Real Housewives" and also “Cake Boss”!!

If you had to pick just one, would you describe yourself as peripatetic, poetic, or chic?

Haha, well! I am NOT poetic! And as much as I would love to say I’m chic (and trust me I try, but you can't look too chic in sweatpants every day while on a bus no matter how hard you try.) Oh, hell! I'm chic! I'm making sweatpants the new chic! ;o)

A Chorus Line's Netanel Bellaishe (Larry)

Check out this video shout-out from Netanel Bellaishe (Larry) in the NETworks Presentations' 2010-2011 national touring company of A CHORUS LINE.

For tickets and more information, visit www.achorusline.com

Q&A with Matthew Couvillon

Rocking denim is hard to do. Matthew Couvillon, who plays Tom Tucker in A CHORUS LINE, should know. As one of the “cut” dancers who does not make it past Zach’s initial audition round, the jeans-clad Tom never gets to share with the audience just how much talent he has. However, the On the Line Blog knows it to be true that Couvillon himself is a fiercely talented dancer who covers several demanding tracks including the athletic Mike and dance captain extraordinaire Larry. Matthew takes a moment to fill out our cast questionnaire below!

Name:
Matthew Couvillon

Role:

Tom Tucker

Describe your favorite song / scene / moment in A Chorus Line.

My favorite moment in the show would have to be Montage 4. The choreography during this section is the most fun because it allows you to truly live in the moment while grasping the style and period of the show.

As one of the cut dancers you get the opportunity to play multiple roles in the show from night to night if one of the principals is out. What is it like keeping multiple tracks straight in your head and who is / would be your favorite role to go on for?

After a rigorous rehearsal process in NYC, months of watching the show and a brief put-in rehearsal I have reached a point where keeping the tracks straight is rather simple. Having gone on for my first covers Mike and Larry many times I must say that my favorite track to cover is Larry.

Tom Tucker has some pretty impressive taste in panstwear… Jeans! What is Tom’s favorite brand of denim, what is your favorite brand of denim and will Tom Tucker be able to single handedly bring blue jeans back?

Tom Tucker is truly the trendsetter of A Chorus Line. When he arrives at the audition he is sporting the latest style of knock-off Levis, a pair of stone washed flare leg denim. He completes his fashion forward look with a raglan sleeve sweatshirt, wide black leather Penguin belt, blue low top Converse and do not forget the small camel hand bag he carries as his dance bag. My favorite brand of denim would also have to be Levis but I try to stay away from the knock-offs!! I do not think that denim ever went out of style, but Tom Tucker is doing a great job at keeping this all-American fashion staple at the forefront of the audition circuit.

Which past tour stop has been your favorite thus far and why?

Palm Desert!!! Between the beautiful theatre, warm weather, great hotel, swimming pool and free breakfast, it was hands down my favorite tour stop.

Matthew Couvillon as Tom Tucker in A CHORUS LINE
Photo by Phil Martin

Name one item you can’t live without while on the road.

This experience would be impossible without my tour friends. And they know who they are!!

What is your favorite Broadway show and why? What is dream role to play and why?

It’s hard to say what my favorite Broadway show would be. But I would have to choose a classic musical with large ensembles and big production numbers. In turn, this is the type of musical I would love to be a part of.

What are the top five most listened to songs on your iPod?

Believe it or not but I do not listen to my iPod very much. While on the bus and during my free time I watch TV episodes. Thus far on tour I have been enjoying Dexter, Will and Grace and Sex and the City. Outdated...maybe, but very much enjoyable!!

Do you have any pop culture guilty pleasures?

I don’t know if it is considered a pop culture guilty pleasure but a definite guilty pleasure for me would have be trash reality television. For some reason I find it very relaxing and I love watching an episode or two after a long work day!

If you had to pick just one, would you describe yourself as peripatetic, poetic or chic? Why?

Chic!!

Win Tickets to A CHORUS LINE in Chattanooga, TN!

The Company of A CHORUS LINE performs "One"
Photo Credit: PHIL MARTIN

TAPA presents A CHORUS LINE
AT MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM IN CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE!
TUESDAY, MARCH 15, 2011 AT 7:30 PM
The musical for everyone who’s ever had a dream and put it all on the line. Winner of nine Tony Awards®, including “Best Musical” and the Pulitzer Prize for drama, this singular sensation is the longest-running American Broadway musical ever. Now it returns. Come meet the new generation of Broadway’s best!

Presented by TAPA and available now as part of the 2010-2011 Broadway Series package. All seats reserved from $31.50 to $56.50 plus convenience fees.

3 EASY WAYS TO ORDER:
1. ONLINE: Click here to buy tickets.
2. BY PHONE: Call (423) 642-TIXS (8497).
3. IN PERSON: Visit the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium Box Office located at 399 McCallie Avenue in Chattanooga, TN. Box Office hours: Monday - Friday, 10 AM to 6:30 PM (EST).

WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS!
Enter to win two (2) tickets* to see A CHORUS LINE at Memorial Auditorium on March 15, 2011!

To enter, send an e-mail to achoruslineontour@gmail.com with the subject line: “I Hope I Get Tickets to A CHORUS LINE in Chattanooga!” In the body of the e-mail, please include your first and last name, city of residence, and valid e-mail address.

All entries must be received by 11:59 PM Eastern on Monday, February 28, 2011. One winner will be selected at random and notified by e-mail on or around Tuesday, March 1, 2011.

*No purchase necessary to enter or win. Limit one entry per person. Void where prohibited by law. Odds of winning depend on the number of entries received at the time of the drawing. Winner is solely responsible for transportation and lodging.

SHARE THIS SWEEPSTAKES
Know someone who lives in or near Chattanooga, Tennessee? Be sure to let them know about A CHORUS LINE and this ticket giveaway by sharing this link (http://bit.ly/gLfS1J) with them!

WWW.ACHORUSLINE.COM

BUY TICKETS NOW!

It Gets Better - A Chorus Line on Tour

Please be sure to check out a special video message for the It Gets Better Project from A Chorus Line on Tour! Cast members of the national touring company of A CHORUS LINE share their experiences on growing up as individuals who were sometimes considered "different," and how things really do get better.

Q&A with Suzanna Dupree

We at the On the Line blog felt things have been a little heavy on the guys lately. Accordingly, we felt like you out there in cyberland needed to hear from another of our lovely female cast members… not just any gal but the alpha-female, one Ms. Sheila Bryant played with spunk and sass every night by the charming Suzanna Dupree. It’s takes a lot of grace to pull off Sheila’s true grit (as she explains below) and a good sense of humor at that to ad lib through some of the stage’s more… unexpected mishaps.

Name

Suzanna Dupree

Role

Sheila Bryant

Describe your favorite song / scene / moment in A Chorus Line.

My favorite moment?? Hmm... I think I’ll have to go with the charge line at the end of the opening number, also known as “the audition.” The amount of determination present in every character is overwhelming and I get excited to meet all of the other characters on stage with me all over again. I get excited to see what the others will bring to the table each night and I like learning the stories, past trials and tribulations of these people I am sharing the stage with and how their paths of life differ from mine. Of course, I always love cracking those sassy Sheila jokes on the line every night with Bobby (Hardy Weaver). We try to change it up to keep it interesting!

Sheila is known primarily as a sassy gal, but there are many shades to her character. What is something interesting about her that you have learned in playing her?

Sassy, yes! She does love to throw out a zinger whenever possible. However, I’ve learned that there is a fine line between playing her as a jaded has-been versus a vulnerable person who has been through a lot in her lifetime and uses humor as an escape from the harsh reality that the longevity of her career as a dancer is slowly dwindling. I truly love getting to play such a multi-faceted character every night, I feel so lucky!

What is the funniest thing that has happened to you on or offstage on the tour?

Oh god, I’m still so embarrassed and scarred to this day from this moment. A few weeks ago in Phoenix in the middle of my scene with Zach, I start with my hair up in a bun and then he asks me to “let it down.” Weeeelllllllllll, that proved to be an impossible task this particular evening! I normally have a few measures of music and my line “that’s what I’ve been trying to do.” After numerous tries of trying to untangle it from my curls, I proceeded to yank it, hoping I could just lose a few chunks of hair in the process but still successfully take it OUT of my hair. No such luck. Finally realizing that the rubber band wasn’t going to budge, and hearing everybody else on the line cracking up (thanks again, guys) I resigned myself to leaving it in my hair for the rest of the time I was onstage, just tucked under the rest of my hair. Luckily it was a blonde rubber band!!

Which past tour stop has been your favorite thus far and why?

Every stop in California has been a dream, but if I had to pick just one, I think it’d be Santa Barbara. I mean, State Street shopping, the beach and 75-degree weather. Need I say more??

Suzanna Dupree as Sheila in A CHORUS LINE

Photo by Phil Martin

Name one item you can’t live without while on the road.

PANDORA on my iPod! I swear to you I truly could not live without it! And if you’re looking for a good station, try the Bruno Mars station. It will change your life, I promise!

What is your favorite Broadway show and why?

I have always been terrible at answering this question. Although my answer will probably be different tomorrow, today my answer is Promises, Promises. Partly because I just got the soundtrack from a friend so it’s fresh on my brain, and partly because I have a littttlleeee inside joke with some friends back in NY involving this show…

What is your dream role to play and why?

AH!! Another tough one. Honestly, I’d LOVE to play Inga in Young Frankenstein because she gets to dance, sing and act. Charity in Sweet Charity is up there too! Any triple threat role would be a dream come true for me!

What are the top five most listened to songs on your iPod?

1. “Just the Way You Are” – Bruno Mars
2. “The Story” – Brandi Carlile (download it, NOW!)
3. “Hold My Hand” – Duet with Michael Jackson & Akon
4. “Haven’t Met You Yet” - Michael Buble
5. “Glitter In the Air” - Pink

Do you have any pop culture guilty pleasures?

I have to say, spending hours upon hours on the bus has made me even more addicted to Facebook and Twitter than I ever thought possible. I think after tour, I might need to take a little hiatus from both of them to feel sane again!!

If you had to pick just one, would you describe yourself as peripatetic, poetic or chic? Why?

Well, chic, of course. Did you even have to ask?? ;);)