The iconic klieg lights of Broadway have found a surprising new home: Sydney's Capitol Theatre. Yes, you read that right. Forget the Windy City, these sassy murderesses have set their sights on sunnier shores.
This Tony Award-winning musical, now the longest-running in Broadway history, explodes onto the stage with a sharp wit, killer tunes courtesy of John Kander and Fred Ebb, and Bob Fosse's unique choreography.
Chicago's roaring twenties shimmer with gin-soaked glamour and cutthroat ambition. Enter Roxie Hart, a housewife with a song in her heart and a murder on her conscience. When her two-timing lover threatens to skip town, Roxie takes matters heartbreakingly final. But prison isn't the end of the show.
With the help of Billy Flynn, a lawyer whose charm is as sharp as his suits, Roxie transforms from a desperate housewife into a captivating tabloid darling.
Her weapon?
A sensationalized sob story spun for the ravenous media, a tale ripped straight from today's headlines, only doused in a flapper's feather boa. Velma Kelly, the reigning queen of the prison stage, may not be thrilled with Roxie's spotlight-stealing act, but one thing's for sure: in this city of jazz and justice, anything goes... as long as the headlines keep rolling.
Aussie Theatre Legend John Frosthas assembled a killer cast for CHICAGO. Leading the Australian chorus line of diamonds is the incomparable Anthony Warlow as the smooth-talking lawyer Billy Flynn. Warlow brings a charismatic charm to the role.
Opposite him is the delightful Zoë Ventoura as the jaded Velma Kelly, a murderess with a showstopping voice and a thirst for fame.
Ventoura delivers a powerhouse performance, owning the stage with her commanding presence and powerful vocals.
But the true scene-stealer is Lucy Maunder as Roxie Hart. Maunder embodies the character's desperate ambition and bubbly personality with infectious energy.
Her rendition of "Roxie" is a showstopper, showcasing her impressive vocal range and comedic timing.
Rounding out the cast is Asabi Goodman, bringing warmth and humor to the role of Matron "Mama" Morton, the prison warden with a heart of gold. S. Valeri provides a delightful contrast as the innocent Mary Sunshine, a reporter determined to expose the truth.
The ensemble cast is nothing short of phenomenal. Their precision and synchronicity in the intricate Fosse choreography bring the iconic style to life with stunning execution.
From the sassy cell block tango to the sleek courtroom ballet, every movement is a visual treat, a testament to their ability to adapt even when faced with the unexpected.
John Frost's production stays true to the spirit of Bob Fosse's original vision, with a sleek and stylish set design that perfectly complements the sharp social commentary of the script.
The costumes are a feast for the eyes, dripping in sequins and feathers, perfectly capturing the glamour and decadence of the Roaring Twenties.
Chicago is a timeless satire that exposes the dark underbelly of celebrity culture and the justice system. It's a show that will leave you laughing, gasping, and tapping your feet long after the curtain falls.
With its phenomenal cast, dazzling choreography,and sharp wit, this production is a must-see for musical theatre fans and anyone who appreciates a good courtroom caper.
So, put on your glad rags, head to the Capitol Theatre pronto as the Sydney season of this classic is rather short, and prepare to be razzle-dazzled by Chicago, with a dash of Down Under charm.
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Words by AW.
Photos courtesy of Jeff Busby.