Chicago first debuted on Broadway 40 years ago, and watching its most recent UK touring production, I can see why it has endured. The musical’s endless show-stopping numbers, combined with Bob Fosse’s stunning choreography, create a treat for the eyes and ears that is done full justice by a cast led by former Strictly Come Dancing favourite Janette Manrara.
I’d seen Chicago previously in London’s West End, but it was around 20 years ago and I’d forgotten just how good the musical numbers are. Kicking things off with ‘All That Jazz’ at Wimbledon Theatre is Djalenga Scott, who plays Velma Kelly brilliantly. Velma is an incarcerated vaudeville star and murderess who is accused of killing her cheating husband and sister.
Velma is used to being the most notorious celebrity at the Chicago jail, but that changes when Manrara’s Roxie Hart joins the other murderesses in the women’s block. ‘Cellblock Tango’ is another great number where some of the women reveal their stories. As is ‘When You’re Good to Mama’, a song that explains the bribery system of the block’s matron, Mama Morton. Loose Women’s Brenda Edwards played the part in Wimbledon, but Mama is played by singer Sinitta in some venues.
Likewise, Janette Manrara has shared her role in Chicago but is now back in it until the end of the tour. She’s a fantastic Roxie Hart, with vocals to match her dancing. Roxie’s story is that she shot her lover, Fred Casely, when he attempted to break off an affair with her. She’s also a wannabe vaudeville star and persuades her hapless husband, Amos, to pay for slippery lawyer Billy Flynn (Darren Day), who helps make her a media sensation, much to Velma’s annoyance.
As the rest of the story plays out, the fabulous musical numbers keep on coming. Other favourites for me include Amos’s number, ‘Mr Cellophane’ and ‘Razzle Dazzle’, which epitomises the essence of the 1920s Jazz Age setting. Every song is flawlessly played by a talented group of musicians and danced by the equally talented ensemble cast members. This might not be on the West End or Broadway, but the performers and production values are just as good and show why Chicago will undoubtedly continue to be a musical for the ages.
The Chicago tour is booking at venues across the UK until the end of August. For more reviews of theatre, art, comedy and music, check the Arts section of my blog.