QNE_p054

QC02042016

54 The Queens Courier • valentine’s day • february 4, 2016 for breaking news visit www.qns.com valentine’s day Secret Theatre’s ‘Chorus Line’ is ‘Singular Sensation!’ Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the musical “A Chorus Line” is playing to packed houses at the Secret Theatre in Long Island City. The cast of charismatic performers revitalizes the 1970s Tony Award-winning show for 2016. Director Tom Rowan brings exceptionally strong expertise to the production. He’s the author of the book “A Chorus Line FAQ.” Producer Richard Mazda has a hit on his hands, benefiting from Broadway and film professionals Matthew LaBanca and Jennifer Knox. LaBanca plays the tough but compassionate director, Zach. Knox gives a sympathetic performance as washed-up Cassie who humbles herself for a final chance on the chorus line. At Saturday evening’s performance, the dancers share a riveting glimpse into the unforgiving world of musical auditions. Each hopeful reveals painful portions of their past. The result is a poignant, powerful presentation that touches even the most jaded theatergoer. Choreographer Geena Quintos’ arrangements are dazzling. Each is truly a visual delight. Music director Evan Zavada leads the five-piece orchestra. He succeeds in underscoring, not overwhelming, the actors. The sets, costumes, lighting and overall stage management make the most of a very small performance space. The perf o r m e r s seamlessly blend into a single group while still impressing us with their individuality. In Act II, Drew Michael Gardner plays Paul. He gives an emotionally wrenching interpret a t i o n as a tormented hopeful w h o s e lifestyle has severely strained his family’s values. Two dancers mesmerized by superficiality are well played by Madeline Fansler and Devon Frieder. By story’s end, their emotional epiphanies take strikingly different directions. The cast’s cleverly crafted onstage smiles are sometimes superficial, sometimes sincere. Characterizations by Caleb Schaaf, Jonny Stein, Loulu Luzi, Anthony Wright, Markus McClain and Amanda Phillips clearly combine that elusive element of confidence and vulnerability. Bravo to the entire cast, too numerous to name individually. Musical numbers display the group’s outstanding harmonies and deep emotions. There’s anxiety in “I Hope I Get It,” while “At the Ballet” is a wistful wish for a perfect life. Of course, “One” (Singular Sensation)” and “What I Did for Love” carve their stirring signatures on the entire production. For information on this and future productions, visit www.secrettheatre.com or call the box office at 718- 392-0722. As always, save me a seat on the aisle. A VIEW FROM THE CLIFF BY CLIF KASDEN King T H E E N G F A M I Yum L Y P R E S E N T S SINCE 1953 Yum1953 THE FINEST & OLDEST CHINESE/POLYNESIAN RESTAURANT IN QUEENS Open 7 Days Every Fri. IN QUEENS CELEBRATING 63 YEARS IN BUSINESS Celebrate Chinese New Year! The Year of JOIN US IN TWO DAYS OF CELEBRATION THE FINEST & OLDEST King The Red Fire Monkey Friday, February 12th Starts 8:00pm — 11:30pm Saturday, February13st Starts 8:00pm — Midnight $3495 Per Person Special Chinese New Year’s BANQUET DINNER with a DRAGON DANCE & DJ Music For Dancing +tax & tip. Call for reservations. Minimum 4 persons per party. Deposit Required Our Regular Menu is also available in the China Room 58THANNIVERSARY Enjoy Our Exotic Drinks In Our Cocktail Lounge Come And Celebrate Valentine’s Day With That Special Someone 181-08 UNION TURNPIKE • FLUSHING 718-380-1918 T S CELEBRATION! Try Our Tropical Island Drinks at our Cocktail Lounge Days Dinner Night Available FLUSHING Handicap Access Restroom Available T H E E INVITES Anniversary AUGUST 7TH LOBSTER CLAMS & SHRIMP BEAN SAUCE GENERAL 181-08 UNION We have a separate available on Mon-Gluten Free Menu Available Hours: Sun.-Thurs. 12 Noon - 9:30 PM; Fri. 12 Noon - Midnight; Sat. - 12 Noon - 11:30PM Handicap Access Restroom Available Gluten Free Menu Available Lunch & Dinner Karaoke Night Take-Out Available Sunday, February 14th


QC02042016
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