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Jocasta Almgill - interview

Bringing you a singular sensation of a show, A Chorus Line is back and currently embarking upon a UK tour. Pushing against whatever it takes to make it to the Broadway spotlights, a gruelling audition tests the limits of hopeful performers, putting them to the pace to see how badly they desire their dreams. Their ambitions shine through in a desperate bid to be chosen as they each mix skills with stories to demonstrate a strong choreographical whirlwind, with a spectacular finale.


The wonderful Jocasta Almgill is playing Diana Morales and has given more of an insight into this.

 

How familiar were you with A Chorus Line before taking on the role, and what influence has this had on your interpretation?


I was familiar with the show before auditioning, having watched the film when I was younger and the 2013 production. While those experiences introduced me to the story, they didn’t directly influence my approach in rehearsals. I believe in starting each role with a fresh perspective, allowing me to discover and develop the character in my own way, rather than being influenced by previous portrayals.




Why did the part appeal to you?


Playing Diana Morales has been a dream of mine since college. I’m drawn to her because she is strong and feisty, yet she also has a sensitivity that makes her incredibly relatable. Her journey throughout the show is one of the most compelling aspects of the character.




With a specific focus on the choreography, how does this differ from previous roles, and what skills have you particularly had to refine to play Diana Morales?


A Chorus Line has always been an extremely challenging show, especially in terms of physical demands. Ellen Kane [choreographer] has really pushed me out of my comfort zone by incorporating multiple dance styles through the show, forcing each actor to dig deep - just as you would in a real audition.




The production represents a range of stories, using real-life testimonies from dancers to provide authenticity. What do you think this adds to the show?


I believe that the fact each character is based on a real person’s story adds immense depth to the overall narrative. When you combine that with each actor bringing their own lived experience to the stage, it creates a layered, honest, and powerful piece of theatre.




Which moments in the show stand out for your character?


My character has two key numbers in the show. First, ‘Nothing’ - a song about her struggles in acting college - and later, the show’s penultimate song, ‘What I Did for Love.’ I find ‘What I Did for Love’ particularly special because it marks the moment where she steps into the role of the protagonist, rallying everyone together. This transitions the show’s musical numbers from a series of solos to a true ensemble moment and is one of the few times when the characters aren’t competing for the job but are united together.




Why do you think A Chorus Line continues to be enjoyed by modern audiences and how does the performance remain reflective of some casting practice and industry views today?


People will always love A Chorus Line because it offers audiences a rare glimpse into our world for two hours. It’s an honest and vulnerable collection of stories where most people will see themselves represented in one way or another. Whether it’s feeling belittled by a superior, being told you’re not pretty enough, taking the wrong path in life and needing to make a U-turn, dealing with a turbulent family life, lacking body confidence, facing suicidal thoughts, or simply not being able to sing - many of these themes are just as relevant today as they were in the ’70s.




What would be your advice for aspiring performers who may be facing rejection alongside their ambition?


My advice for aspiring performers is to focus on your craft and stay true to yourself. Just like in A Chorus Line, where Zach [the role of casting director] wants to get to know the real person, bringing your authentic self to a character makes you a stronger, more versatile performer. That’s what can turn a good performer into a great one.


 

Huge thanks to Jocasta for taking the time to answer these for us - you're a star! Best wishes for the rest of the run and beyond.



Get tickets for the remaining tour dates here:




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