Thomas superb as Kleban

Veteran actor Robbie Thomas played against type as the star of the Footlight Players' smashing staging of "Class Act," which opened Friday. And not only did he get away with portraying Ed Kleban, the Tony Award-winning lyricist of "A Chorus Line," he made the brilliant, neurotic composer come alive.

The show's brisk cadence was decidedly upbeat as director Robert Ivey brought out the amazingly strong vocal talent of all eight actors.

Thomas belted out the gorgeous, funny tunes composed by Kleban that were never performed on stage -- until his friends produced his work on Broadway after his death.

With the book by Linda Kline and Lonnie Price, the musical featured Caroline Boegel, whose luminous visage and commanding singing voice held the audience enthralled as Lucy, Ed's best friend.

Also powerful was Elizabeth Ferraro as Kleban's true love and Jennifer Goldsmith Morlan as an imperious record producer.

Sparkling as Michael Bennett, director of "A Chorus Line," was Christian Self, whose quicksilver footwork matched his exuberant persona.

Music director Marsha Goldsmith effectively directed the backstage, four-piece band, as the "Broadway Boogie Woogie" made you want to dance a wing step in the aisle.

"Class Act" will be performed through May 16 at 20 Queen St.