Story Structure — 4 Plot Phases
Origins and Auditions
The documentary establishes the historical foundation of A Chorus Line through Michael Bennett's original interviews. Three thousand dancers arrive for the revival audition, beginning a rigorous selection process.
Key Events
-
Bennett's Original Interviews — Michael Bennett records informal interviews with Broadway dancers.
Location: Recording Studio
-
Musical Foundation Established — Interviews become the basis for the award-winning musical.
Location: Broadway Archives
-
Audition Day Arrival — 3,000 dancers arrive to audition for the revival. Characters: Himself (as German Santiago), Herself - Kristine Auditionee, Himself - Revival Director, Herself - Original Connie
Location: Audition Hall
-
Original Cast Recollections — Original cast members share memories of the 1975 production.
Location: Interview Room
-
Audition Process Continues — Dancers undergo rigorous evaluations for revival roles. Characters: Himself (as German Santiago), Herself - Kristine Auditionee, Himself - Revival Director, Herself - Original Connie
Location: Casting Office
-
Dancer Elimination Rounds — Competitive rounds narrow down the 3,000 initial applicants. Characters: Himself (as German Santiago), Herself - Kristine Auditionee, Himself - Revival Director
Location: Audition Hall
Historical Echoes
Original cast members and the composer share recollections of the 1975 production. Bob Avian's directorial vision for the revival takes shape as choreography and casting strategies are developed.
Key Events
-
Original Cast Recollections — Original cast members share memories of the 1975 production.
Location: Interview Room
-
Avian's Directorial Vision — Bob Avian prepares to direct the 2006 revival.
Location: Rehearsal Studio
-
Dancer Stories Interwoven — Individual dancer journeys are highlighted alongside historical context. Characters: Himself (as German Santiago), Herself - Kristine Auditionee, Himself - Revival Director
Location: Audition Stages
-
Historical Tape Playback — Original Bennett audiotapes are played for historical context.
Location: Archival Room
-
Choreography Rehearsals — Original choreography is reviewed and adapted for the revival.
Location: Dance Studio
-
Dancer Elimination Rounds — Competitive rounds narrow down the 3,000 initial applicants. Characters: Himself (as German Santiago), Herself - Kristine Auditionee, Himself - Revival Director
Location: Audition Hall
-
Composer's Musical Insights — Marvin Hamlisch discusses the musical's composition and legacy.
Location: Studio
-
Final Casting Decisions — Final roles for the revival are assigned by the director. Characters: Herself - Original Connie
Location: Director's Office
Festival Circuit
The documentary premieres at TIFF and embarks on an international festival run. The filmmakers compile audition footage and historical archives to craft the final narrative.
Key Events
-
Toronto Film Festival Premiere — The documentary premieres at TIFF in September 2008.
Location: Toronto International Film Festival
-
Japanese Theatrical Release — The film releases in Japan under an alternate title.
Location: Japanese Cinemas
-
Berlin International Screening — The documentary is showcased at the Berlin festival.
Location: Berlin International Film Festival
-
Festival Circuit Expansion — The documentary gains international recognition through festivals.
Location: International Venues
-
Final Casting Decisions — Final roles for the revival are assigned by the director. Characters: Herself - Original Connie
Location: Director's Office
-
Documentary Editing Phase — Directors compile audition footage and historical interviews.
Location: Editing Suite
Broadway Debut
The film secures a limited US theatrical release after its festival success. The enduring legacy of the musical is celebrated as the revival officially launches on Broadway.
Key Events
-
Thessaloniki Festival Showcase — The film continues its festival circuit in Greece.
Location: Thessaloniki Documentary Festival
-
Sarasota Film Festival Run — The documentary screens at the Sarasota festival.
Location: Sarasota Film Festival
-
US Limited Release — The film goes into limited theatrical release in the US.
Location: US Theaters
-
Legacy of A Chorus Line — The enduring impact of the original musical is celebrated.
Location: Broadway Stage
-
Festival Circuit Expansion — The documentary gains international recognition through festivals.
Location: International Venues
-
Broadway Revival Launch — The revived production debuts on Broadway, fulfilling the journey. Characters: Himself (as German Santiago), Herself - Kristine Auditionee
Location: Broadway Theater
