Ensemble? Chorus? Yes, Please!

Question often considered by high school musical student. If passed over for a lead part, should I take an ensemble or chorus role?

Ok, so what is that old saying? “There are no small parts. Only small actors”. Well, that’s somewhat true.

I am always interested in hearing about upcoming musicals, and often ask high school students, “What part will you play?”

Many times, I will receive this answer.
“I’m just in the chorus. I’m just in the ensemble.”

Ok guys, first words to go, “I’m just.”

Let’s talk about this chorus that you’re “just in.”

The high school musical chorus or ensemble is perhaps the most important ingredient in your total show recipe. Here’s why.

Yes, your leads and supporting leads do their part, and hopefully they do them well, delivering perfect solos and duets. But it’s the ensemble pieces I notice because it’s the ensemble that can knock your socks off.

Production numbers could not exist without a powerful ensemble. Ensembles often open and can set the tone for a show, whether it’s going to be phenomenal or just mediocre. Chorus can also be fun. Just because you don’t have any lines or a song of your own doesn’t mean you can’t create a fun character of your own.

Study the show, the period or the songs you will be performing. Hello Dolly? Pick a beautiful formal gown with large hat and parasol to demonstrate your Sunday best. Thoroughly Modern Millie? A cute beaded flapper costume and don’t forget a feather for your hair. Fiddler on the Roof? Men explore prayer shawls and beards. Ladies, shawls and costumes of that period. You get the idea.

Obviously, you want to sound your best and dance your best but I also look for presence in chorus members. Do you engage with one another? Do you make it look like you are “in” this play, or are you just standing there because “you’re just in the chorus.”

A few years back I had a student approach me. He tried out for his upcoming musical, but did not get a lead, supporting role or speaking role. He received chorus and dancer.

This student had two days to accept his assigned “part”.

“Honestly Mrs. J, I don’t know if I want to devote so much time for just a chorus role.”

Here was my answer.

“Do you love musical theater? Do you love and enjoy spending time with your friends who are also part of your high school musical? Do you aspire to getting that lead or supporting role someday? My answer is you MOST DEFINITELY want to take a chorus part. Hands down, it is the best jumping off point”.

As an underclassman, chorus roles are the BEST way to learn what it takes to put together a musical with your fellow cast mates. You’ll learn perfect harmony and choreography. You’ll learn blocking, set design, scenery and costumes. You will learn every step of how to put together a successful musical performance. You’ll be able to study your show’s leads. What makes their performance special? Take mental notes and perhaps next year on opening night you will be standing where they are.

In the mean time, chorus and ensemble is the glue that holds your musical together. Know that show stopping production number? Chances are ensemble members are part of it. We’ll talk a bit more about production numbers later.

I love chorus parts especially for theater newbie’s because it introduces you to high school musical theater. You might give it a try and find it’s not for you, and that’s fine. However, I guarantee you’ll have the time of your life and learn what real teamwork can achieve.

My young friend also received a dancing part. Turns out, he had a show stopping dance sequence with two other boys during a phenomenal production number. He was already a fantastic dancer, a talent he didn’t know he possessed till the show’s choreographer brought it out of him.  I am sure I’ll see him in a lead soon.