Dubbed “the sexiest musical ever” (Metro), Chicago returns to Blackpool this week, with a huge sprinkle of razzle-dazzle with it! Set with the decadent backdrop of the 1920s Chicago jazz scene, the story follows Roxie Hart who murders her lover when he threatens to leave her. In a desperate attempt to avoid conviction, Hart hires renowned lawyer Billy Flynn to assist her in deceiving the media, public and rival cellmate, Velma Kelly. With show-stopping songs a plenty, the sultry, sassy, sensational Chicago is back at the Seaside with a bang.
With lyrics from Fredd Ebb and music by John Kander, blasted out by a live band onstage (under the superb musical direction of Neil MacDonald), it’s easy to understand Chicago’s appeal. I must admit, having seen the show various times over the years, I am a big fan. This current production breathes fresh life into a timeless classic, proving the musical continues to be an inter-generational hit.
The show’s leading ladies shone, proving to be true triple threats with incredible vocals, acting and, in particular, phenomenal dancing. Strictly’s Janette Manrara brought all the feigned innocence necessary for the calculating Roxie Hart, whilst her desperation for fame offered a fully rounded character, questioning us, as an audience, whether we should warm to her or not. Whilst her dancing was, of course, incredible, I was impressed with Manrara’s vocal ability, with her self-titled ‘Roxie’ a real highpoint. Djalenga Scott’s Velma Kelly offered great contrast to Roxie. In a beautifully brashy, over-confident style, Scott nailed the character of the performer-come-murderess to a tee. Her stunning vocals for the iconic opening number, ‘All That Jazz’, set the tone for the evening with Scott owning the stage whenever she was present. Her comedic timing, dancing and sheer energy delivered ‘I Can’t Do It Alone’ with aplomb.
Linda John-Pierre was a powerhouse in the role of Mama Morton. Her rendition of ‘When You’re Good to Mama’ brought the house down, with wonderfully nuanced facial expressions to the audience really drawing us in. Her relationship with Scott’s Velma felt authentic, with their duet ‘Class’ an unexpected gem. The song really resonated with a contemporary audience, feeling as relevant today as the day it was written.
Experienced performer Darren Day brought an assured performance to Billy Flynn, effortlessly nailing the vocals on favourites such as, ‘All I Care About’. However, his overall character felt rather one-dimensional and didn’t hit the mark for me. I’d like to see Billy with more of a glint in his eye, gliding across the stage with swagger and sex appeal. Sadly, Day’s performance was rather more wooden and uninspiring.
It would be remiss of me not to mention the simply brilliant ensemble for this production. Never leaving the stage throughout, their vocals and routines were consistently on point. With an understated set, this show relies on its cast to bring the stage to life – and they most certainly did. With Bob Fosse’s iconic choreography and inspiration oozing throughout every routine, there wasn’t a step missed. Bravo to Associate Choreographer, Matthew Wesley, for staying true to the original, whilst bringing a freshness to each number. ‘Razzle Dazzle’ was one of the best, most unique routines I’ve ever seen on stage. When I think of Chicago, I instantly think of the wonderful Fosse hand movements, and this production didn’t disappoint, with them weaving scene to scene, song to song throughout. Witnessing Djalenga Scott and Janette Manrara performing Fosse’s original choreography for ‘Hot Honey Rag’ felt a real privilege.
Overall, Chicago really is a timeless classic that offers a great night’s entertainment whether you have seen it once or 100 times. You’ll struggle to find a musical with a stronger song book. The energy emitted from the cast and band alike was electric, making this production impossible not to enjoy. Whilst the finale could’ve packed more of a punch with, dare I say it, a little more razzle-dazzle, perhaps sometimes it’s best to be left wanting more?
Chicago guarantees a great night out… and all that jazz!
Chicago is at Blackpool Opera House until Saturday 26th July. Book tickets here: www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk/our-venues/large-venues/opera-house/
Reviewer: Paddy Darnell-Walsh
Reviewed: 21st July 2024
North West End UK Rating: