A Chorus Line was created more than three decades ago by Michael Bennett, a dancer who wanted to tell his story. With the return of the touring show and a recent documentary, this legendary musical continues to inspire audiences of all ages. Windy City Times gave center stage to a 'singular sensation'local talent Ian Liberto, who plays Bobby in the show.
Windy City Times: Hello, Ian. How was opening night last night?
Ian Liberto: It was a preview night so [ it was ] our first performance in Chicago. The audience was great. I think we will really enjoy the audiences here. It's the first time that I have performed here in Chicago on this kind of scale. I have worked regionally at the Marriott and other places but this was my first Broadway tour so I was a little nervous.
WCT: The size of that theatre could be intimidating to anyone.
IL: It was strange being in the space where I used to shows at when I was little and being at the opposite end of it.
WCT: You went to school in Decatur. How was life after school?
IL: After graduating, I went on the road for a year with Thoroughly Modern Millie. The closest that we came through here was Joliet, Ill. After that I worked regionally here and there and then came back to Chicago, to work at the Marriott Theater in Lincolnshire.
WCT: What has been your favorite musical to be in?
IL: Cabaret has been my favorite musical to be in. The reason I wanted to be involved with musicals is because I saw a production of Chicago while I was in high school at the Schubert Theatre. I fell in love with Bob Fosse and all of his choreography. Cabaret was a movie that watched over and over and then I got be in it.
WCT: Did you have a big dance background?
IL: I started taking dance classes when I was in high school. I was a swimmer, did orchestra and took choir. I was naturally graceful. I was always the best guy dancer. I was 17 when I finally got into a ballet class. I trained with Gus Giordano Jazz Dance in Evanston. I gained a lot of experience and technique there.
WCT: In what ways are you similar to the character you play, Bobby?
IL: I'm really eccentric and eclectic. I'm extremely sarcastic. I like to think that I am witty. Bobby can be described as a class clown, but he's charming, not annoying. In some ways I am similar to him.
WCT: And then in what ways [ are you ] dissimilar?
IL: There are a lot of ways that we are not the same. I never set my siblings on fire. [ Laughs ] Bobby is ashamed of who he is. In 1975, he's getting into the business in the time of Rock Hudson, where you couldn't be opening homosexual and be a movie star. He had a troubled childhood and covers up for things with sarcasm. But for me, I have a very accepting family and had no trouble coming out of the closet.
WCT: Are your parents coming to see the show?
IL: Yes, they are. They have seen it in Baltimore and San Francisco, but are coming to see it this Saturday.
WCT: Have you seen the new documentary Every Little Step [ about A Chorus Line ] , and any thoughts on it?
IL: I have. I thought it was fantastic. It made me cry a lot. It made me realize how fortunate I am to be a part of the production. When you see how many thousands of people auditioned for the show, it makes you feel very fortunate.
WCT: What are your plans for the future?
IL: I am with the show until November. Then I think it's taking a short hiatus and starting up again.
I am getting married in July. In November, I am going to move back to New York and enjoy being married. I will live off my savings until I get my next Broadway show.
WCT: Did you meet your fiancé in New York?
IL: I was in Long Island doing a production of Sweet Charity. He knew the music director. He came to see the show and we met there.
WCT: Well, love stories with musicals do happen in real life after all!
A Chorus Line runs through May 3 at The Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph. Tickets may be purchased at www.BroadwayInChicago.com or www.AChorusLine.com .