Pounce
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Original "Cast" Getting ShaftedI read in today's New York Times that the dancers interviewed for creating A Chorus Line, signed away their stories for only $1. They didn't feel right about it at the time but since Bennett was an important figure in theater, they felt they had little choice for the sake of their careers. And when the show was created, not all the dancers whose stories were being used got to even play themselves. But maybe it was because some could only dance? Later another deal was worked out so those whose stories were used were compensated which, if I understand the article, worked to about $10,000 a year. (actually the compensation was a bit more complicated)
But now in revival, and Bennett dead, apparently, legally, those same dancers will not receive any royalties unless those of Bennett's estate agree. In fairness, they contributed a lot to making A Chorus Line and should share in its success.
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