The first time I ever saw A Chorus Line, when it got to the part where Williams' character, Paul San Marco launched into his monologue, I found myself holding my breath and clinging to every single word. And I wept. Lots of other people all around me were sniffling - it's one hell of a monologue and very touching. But I was full-on crying, and I couldn't stop. It was the first time this then-14 year-old ever saw someone like me - gay, scared, self-loathing, and terrified of being discovered - come to life on the stage. It was a life-changing, life-affirming moment.
Thank you, Mr. Williams. I will forever be in your debt. Rest in peace.
Sammy Williams sings on the original Broadway Cast Album of A Chorus Line. " I really need this job." His great monologue of Paul is history. I never saw him on stage, yet his performance in ACL lives on in the actors who recreate his triumph.
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