Welcome to A Chorus Line.
Whether this is your first musical or your hundredth, thank you for choosing to spend the next few hours with us. In a world that moves faster every day, live theatre asks us to do something beautifully simple: be present.
This production is especially meaningful to me. It marks my second decade at Young Actors' Theatre and my third decade as a Director. I've spent many years chasing opening nights, teaching choreography, solving impossible production problems, and somehow convincing people that "one more time" really does mean one more time. But the older I get, the more I realize none of that is why I keep coming back.
I come back for the people.
When A Chorus Line premiered in 1975, it changed musical theatre forever. It pulled the spotlight away from the stars and turned it toward the ensemble—the dreamers, the workers, the artists who spend their lives standing in the line, hoping for one chance to be seen. This show is built from the real stories of Broadway dancers, creating something wonderfully meta: a musical about the very people trying to earn a place in a musical. It reminds us that behind every performance is a human being with fears, triumphs, heartbreaks, and dreams. Tonight, you will experience that same invitation.
You'll peek inside an audition room. You'll laugh at awkward moments, celebrate incredible talent, and maybe even recognize a little of yourself in someone standing on that line. Because whether you've ever set foot on stage or not, we've all wondered if we're enough. We've all hoped someone would choose us. We all want to belong. That is why I do this.
People often assume my job is to create a great show. It isn’t. Well it isn’t ONLY that. I believe my job is to create a space where young people discover who they are.
I've watched shy teens become fearless storytellers. I've watched students who felt invisible find lifelong friendships. I've watched theatre become the place where someone finally felt accepted exactly as they were. Those moments matter far more than perfect pirouettes or flawless harmonies. Theatre isn't about creating great actors. It's about creating great people.
None of this happens alone. I am endlessly grateful to our remarkable production team. To our brilliant Music Director, Kim, whose musicianship and heart shaped every note. To my extraordinary choreography team, Mileigh, Moxie and Jenn, whose creativity fills every movement with life. To our steadfast Stage Manager, Maxine, and Assistant Director, Alicia, who somehow keep this beautiful show running with grace and humor. To every designer, technician, volunteer, parent, board member and Young Actors' Theatre staff member who quietly works behind the scenes so magic can happen. And to Kristina, thank you for believing in artists, in young people, and in building a home where creativity can flourish. Your faith in all of us has changed countless lives—including mine.
Finally, to this remarkable cast: thank you for trusting us with your stories. Thank you for being vulnerable enough to stand in the light. That takes courage.
As you leave the theatre, I hope you take something with you. Maybe it's the courage to sign up for that dance class. Maybe it's the confidence to audition for a show—or volunteer backstage. Maybe it's simply the reminder to tell someone your story, or to listen when they share theirs.
Art doesn't change the world because of what happens on a stage. It changes the world because of what happens after the audience goes home.
Thank you for being here with us. I hope you enjoy the show.
Now... the line is waiting.
— Chrissy Burns, Director/Choreographer
