Youth theatre stages musical in tribute of Thommie Walsh
The Auburn Players Summer Youth Theater has been rehearsing a special production of “A Chorus Line: High School Edition,” dedicated to the memory of Thommie Walsh. Thommie is a Tony-winning choreographer who originated the role of Bobby in “A Chorus Line,” the landmark musical directed and choreographed by Michael Bennett, about the lives and loves of the gypsy dancers of Broadway.
A native Auburnian, Walsh went on to become an award-winning director, choreographer and author, winning two Tony Awards and a Drama Desk Award in addition to several other nominations for his work.
“A Chorus Line: High School Edition” is a full-length version of the groundbreaking musical, adapted for performance by young performers. This adaptation was developed in association with Baayork Lee, who directed the recent Broadway revival and originated the role of Connie in the world premiere cast.
Ms. Lee reached out to the cast, “I Think it is such an honor to have ACL being presented in Auburn, NY, Thommie Walsh’s hometown. He grew up there and with all of successes he spent his entire life coming back to his hometown where his sister still resides. I know you will fill the house with new comers but with many friends and neighbors of the Walsh family, who got on their Broadway Tour buses to be introduced first to A Chorus Line and then so many Broadway shows after that for many years. A Chorus Line’s continues to entertain as well as touch people hearts. All the stories are real and Thommie Walsh’s is there to make his community proud that they had a 2 time Tony Award Winner and incredible performer,Home Grown, as one of it’s authors. Enjoy this iconic Pulitzer Prize winning Show that has come to Auburn, NY. In loving spirit, Baayork Lee”
This production is directed by Elisa Carabajal Hunt and Sara Fraher, choreographed by Yvonne Villano-Hassett and Nikkia Borowski, with music direction by Sherry Smith Samuel. In addition, the staff is receiving staging assistance from NYC based actor, Paul Liberti, who performed in various production of “A Chorus Line” from 1986 to 1992, including the Atlantic City production which was directed and choreographed by Thommie Walsh and Baayork Lee. Mr. Liberti is also conducting master classes with the students on the history of the show, Michael Bennett choreography, Thommie Walsh and the original cast members.
Hunt expressed her decision to take on this musical this summer for a couple reasons: “’A Chorus Line,’” is an important part of American Musical Theater history and having a native Auburnian be a part of that history has always brought our community great pride. This is something we need to pass on to our next generation.” She added, “The cast of 24 has been working hard to learn these iconic songs and dances. They have done research on the history of the show, the show’s creator Michael Bennett, and the cast members who created these iconic roles. This cast is so invested in this production, they may be making some history here themselves.”
A CHORUS LINE – HIGH SCHOOL EDITION will take the stage on August 3rd and 4th at 7:30 PM and August 5th at 2:00 PM at the Irene Bisgrove Theater at CCC. Tickets are $15 general admission, $10 Senior/Student, and $5 for kids under age 12. Visit www.auburnplayers.org for more information or to purchase tickets.
One thought to “A Tribute to Thommie – Youth Theater presents “A CHORUS LINE HS EDITION””
WOO-HOO! Oh, how I wish I still lived in the Auburn area so I could see this show! Kudos for contacting Baayork Lee, and so happy that she responded with such a wonderful testimonial and support. I’ve read every single one of the cast member profiles… it’s awesome that each of these young people gets the chance to speak about their role and their experience. (As a professional marketer, I think this is GREAT promotional tactic!) Break all the legs with this show… I know it will be fantastic! – Cindy Nagle
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