Chicago The Musical Review

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I love going to the theatre, I wouldn’t be writing this if I didn’t. But there’s something magical about going when you haven’t  seen the movie based on the show. It allows you to digest it all in a very different way and you’re not forced into any comparisons. Chicago the musical is one of those shows…

Set in the 20’s when life was all about Jazz and prohibition era criminality, Chicago follows the story of the beautiful but devious Roxie Hart, otherwise known as Beulah Annan in real life. With easy access to illegal booze and easy to obtain fire arms, she lands herself in Cook County jail, and very soon realises that there is a lot of attention from the newspapers on the outside. 

Enter Maurine Watkins, a reporter for the Chicago Tribune. She covered the trials of the women on death row, especially the ones like Beulah, who were looking to get out of jail free by using their beauty and glamour to sway the typically all male jury.

It was Watkins herself that that turned her experiences into the play in 1926, which was then transformed into a book and a musical in 1975 by John Kander & Fred Ebb. With some amazing choreography by the late Bob Fosse, it all adds up to a musical full of sheer brilliance, not just musically but visually too.

The set is grand, but minimal! And those who read my reviews regularly will know that I love a live band in any musical, and this is quite possibly the most talented I’ve seen yet. You won’t be disappointed! The band are integral to the way the story is told, with the majority of the dialogue and choreography illustrated through innovative rhythms, witty lyrics and classy jazz riffs. It’s so cleverly done that it’s seamless, and I can only applaud them on their efforts.

Corrie’s Faye Brookes was brilliant as our protagonist Roxy Hart. With all of the qualities required to portray the loveable rogue, it’s clear to see why the NTA winner was awarded the part. Starting alongside her is Djalenga Scott playing the insatiable Velma Kelly, another inmate who takes offence that Roxy is trying to steal her thunder. She was incredible with a look and sound that reflected the times of the story.

Roxy’s defence? The lovable lawyer Billy Flynn, portrayed by Russell Watson. Russell was the voice behind the theme tune for Star Trek Enterprise, a song which is cheesy as hell but definitely a guilty pleasure. And there’s no denying that voice, whatever your thoughts on the Intro were. He was utterly brilliant and perfectly cast!

And you’ve heard of the 70’s smash hit girl group the Three Degrees right? Would you believe that the lead singer stars in Chicago the musical? The one and only Sheila Ferguson  is awesome as Matron Morton, or Mamma as the inmates affectionately know her. What a voice! She’s responsible for keeping the inmate’s heads straight and preparing them for the worst, or in Roxy’s case, helping them to build a case to win their freedom.

And also pulling off great performances were Jamie Baughan as Amos, Roxy’s hapless husband and B E Wong as Mary Sunshine. These two only added to the charm of this production and were fantastic in their own right.

All backed up by a 15 strong supporting cast, the choreography was simply some of the best I’ve ever seen in a production.

Was it my kind of story? Well… no it wasn’t. Sometimes I’m surprised when I like a musical that I wouldn’t have usually gone to watch, but this really wasn’t my thing.

But artistically, technically, visually and musically I’d be lying if I said I didn’t absolutely adore it. It was simply incredible and I’d go as far as to say that it was the most impressive production I’ve ever seen. Not forgetting that it’s also sexy as hell, with enough flesh and raunchy choreography to make Rock Of Ages look timid!

Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

It's playing at the Regent Theatre NOW until and including Saturday 19th March. Tickets are on sale and are available from the Box Office, by calling 0844 871 7649 or visiting www.atgtickets.com/stoke