SMASHING all manner of Broadway box office records, A Chorus Line has continued to be one of the most regularly performed works in the Marcin Hamlisch repertoire.

Despite its billing as being a musical, A Chorus Line is undeniably a narrative apropos human emotion first and a piece of musical theatre second. As a result it relies on taut and convincing acting to maintain the intensity and honesty of the story.

Set in a New York dance studio where showbiz wannabes are vying to be chosen to be in a forthcoming Broadway musical, it opens as the auditions are in progress.

It's a slow burning show where the hopefuls are introduced and their frailties are starkly exposed before building to a glitzy tap dancing finale.

All of the talented cast applied themselves well to the task with only occasional instances where the production sagged due to some misfiring vocals and stodgy dialogue delivery. That said, the youngsters performed with enthusiasm and precision in the rousing ensemble numbers.

Danielle Owens impressed vocally and dramatically as Diana Morales and her performance was a highlight.

When joined by Laura Fuller (Sheila) and Alana Asher (Bebe), the well balanced trio produced some memorable ensemble singing.

Tim Minshull gave an earnest portrayal of the troubled Paul and came into his own with his impressive monologue whilst Luke Weston (Zach) gave an authoritative performance.

As a nation seemingly obsessed with X Factor et al, interest in musical theatre is at its zenith.

Whereas TV can dish up questionable talent fayre, there's no doubt that Big Dog only do the real deal.

Michael Moore