The anticipated revival of A Chorus Line, planned for its 50th anniversary, has been officially canceled. Scheduled to run from September 5 to September 27, 2025, the production aimed to offer twenty-one performances in a Manhattan dance studio.
Licensing issues arose when Concord Theatricals retracted the rights necessary for the show to move forward. The production was announced earlier today by KOPCORP, with the revival directed by Alex Kopnick.
Kopnick intended to create a unique experience by staging the musical in a piano-only format within The Loft New York, a third-floor rehearsal space in Chinatown. The vision was to allow audiences a fresh perspective on A Chorus Line, demonstrating its storyline from an intimate vantage point.
A spokesperson from Concord Theatricals stated, “Unfortunately, the New York production announced this morning mischaracterized itself during the licensing process and will no longer be going ahead.” The studio affirmed that authorized plans for celebrating the 50th anniversary of A Chorus Line are forthcoming.
In his response, Director Alex Kopnick expressed immense disappointment over the cancellation, highlighting A Chorus Line as a profound exploration of the sacrifices dancers make for their aspirations. He noted that the intention was to honor the musical’s legacy by utilizing an amateur, all non-union cast, similar to his previous work with [title of show] in September 2024, which was also licensed through Concord Theatricals.
Kopnick mentioned, “The goal was to showcase new voices and talents from across the theater community. We wanted to allow audiences to experience the vulnerability of this iconic musical in refreshing new ways.” He also emphasized the misunderstandings surrounding the nature of the production, stating, “We never intended to change the DNA of the show nor alter any of the text or lyrics.”
The initial enthusiasm from the public and the outcome of a social media campaign was unexpected for Kopnick. “It speaks to the legacy of this impactful show and the unique place it holds in the hearts of the theater community across the country,” he said.
Kopnick and his team are in the process of filing an appeal with Concord Theatricals regarding the non-commercial production. “We will defer to Concord and the original rights holders in the decision they make,” he added, advocating for an understanding that their intentions were not to detract from any other milestone celebrations of the classic show.
A Chorus Line originally premiered at The Public Theater on April 15, 1975. Created by Michael Bennett with a book by James Kirkwood and Nicholas Dante, music by Marvin Hamlisch, and lyrics by Edward Kleban, it became a landmark production, winning nine Tony Awards and the 1976 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It holds the distinction of being one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history.
Details on officially sanctioned anniversary events are expected to be shared shortly, as the theater community waits for updates on this beloved classic’s celebrations.
image source from：https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Rights-Pulled-For-NYC-Site-Specific-Non-Equity-A-CHORUS-LINE-20250605
