Few musicals have had the cultural impact of A Chorus Line. Since its 1975 Broadway debut, Michael Bennett’s concept musical has celebrated the hopes, fears and resilience of dancers fighting for a place on stage. Winning multiple Tony Awards, the Olivier Award and even the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, it remains one of the most influential shows in theatre history.

This spring, Free-Rain Theatre brings A Chorus Line to The Q in Queanbeyan from 30 September to 19 October. The production promises both reverence for the original and a fresh perspective under the direction and choreography of Michelle Heine.

For Canberra performer Ylaria Rogers, who takes on the role of Cassie, the story feels strikingly personal.

“What I find most fascinating about A Chorus Line is that it was created from real dancers’ stories,” she says.

“Michael Bennett wanted to show that dancers could do it all, sing, act, and dance, but he also asked the question: What happens when you turn 30 and can’t dance anymore? It’s a big conversation about identity and what comes next when the thing you love most is suddenly out of reach.”

At the heart of Cassie’s role is The Music and the Mirror, a demanding nine-and-a-half-minute sequence that combines song, dance and acting in one.

“It’s both terrifying and exhilarating,” Ylaria laughs. “I never thought I’d play this role, but now I’m rehearsing every day to make sure I know every step, every song, every line. It’s intense but incredibly rewarding.”

Ylaria relates closely to Cassie’s journey.

“She talks about turning 30, about having succeeded in some ways but not in others, and coming back to where it all began. I relate to that. I’ve worked in big cities, even in London, and then found myself back in Canberra. The story is raw and very close to home.”

Her own story is deeply rooted in Canberra’s theatre community. “This marks the 25th anniversary of working with Free-Rain; my first amateur show with them was when I was 10. Local theatre gave me opportunities I might not otherwise have had. Community theatre really is the backbone of the arts here.”

Ultimately, Ylaria hopes audiences walk away inspired. “A Chorus Line showcases the joy and the struggle of being an artist. It’s about putting yourself on the line again and again, being vulnerable, and daring to chase your dreams. That’s why it still resonates today, because it’s about identity, resilience and hope.”

Catch Free-Rain Theatre’s production of A Chorus Line at The Q, 30 September – 19 October. Visit freeraintheatre.com for more details.