Six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards and a Grammy … after 25 years Chicago is still captivating audiences. The tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz arrived at Birmingham’s Alexandra Theatre this week
Chicago is two hours of lingerie, murder and jazz; can you picture a more spectacular evening? Set in the US city of the same name, it’s a musical that beautifully intertwines provocative choreography with seductive vocals, enveloping the audience in a 1920’s bubble of tantalising cabaret.
We follow two married murderesses – Roxie (Faye Brookes) and Velma (Djalenga Scott) – both hungry for fame and fortune, and watch as they navigate their way through the Cook County Jail. The effortless pair exudes sensuality through every sultry costume and, while the props are minimal, their powerful presence fills the dazzling stage.
The cast are incredibly individual as each alluring prisoner gives their own dynamic performance, keeping the audience entertained from start to end. This, alongside the impeccable musical score, makes it a night you won’t forget. From Amos (Joel Montague) who wins over the Alex crowd with his doe-eyed soliloquies and pitiful loyalty, to Billy Flynn (Darren Day) who is charismatic and corrupt, each character is interesting and fully fleshed out.
Somehow, the costumes manage to match the magnitude of the actors, with inviting necklines and exciting fabrics; it is truly a night of showbiz sensation. As well as the costumes, having the jazz band on-stage, alongside the seductresses, elevates the setting, and depicts the storyline perfectly. Finally, complimenting the glamour is the lighting: from intimate spotlights, to bold backlighting, the excitement of the 1920s came alive on-stage. We finished the evening with a standing ovation, which was only fitting for murderers in lingerie.
Chicago runs at The Alexandre Theatre Birmingham until Saturday January 29. Click here for tickets.