Chicago
A Kander and Ebb classic given a new lease of life by an exceptionally talented cast, Chicago remains one of musical theatre’s finest shows which some might say is criminally good!
Set in the 1920’s, we follow a story of adultery, murder, treachery and violence as ‘butter wouldn’t melt’ Roxie Hart kills her lover and finds herself in the Cook County Jail fighting for survival under the wing of revered Chicago lawyer Billy Flynn. Meeting various characters whilst in jail, including cabaret performer Velma Kelly, Roxie finally wins her freedom and garners the fame she so desperately craves.
The cast for this current tour of Chicago are outstanding. Roxie Hart comes in the shape of Strictly Come Dancing favourite Janette Manrara who does an excellent job. Obviously very well known for her dancing talent, Manrara also shone vocally in the many musical numbers showing her versatility as a performer. Returning to the role of Velma Kelly is Djalenga Scott whose characterisation is rather understated and nonchalant during the opening number ‘All That Jazz’, however as the show progresses, she shows a confident side, with even a few comedic moments. Also stepping back into a role they have encompassed before is Darren Day as Billy Flynn, the hot shot lawyer just after a quick buck and of course to help the many ladies of the Cook County Jail gain their freedom, guilty or not!. Day is a consummate professional, so you can sit back and relax as the performance is polished, with fantastic vocals, especially during ‘Razzle Dazzle’ and ‘All I Care About’ which features some of the best featherography (yes, I’ve made that word up!) I’ve seen.
This show is peppered with some musical theatre greats, not withstanding the ‘Cell Block Tango’ which no matter how many times I see and hear it, still pleases with its female empowerment vibe and strong female performances. Each and every one of the ensemble cast worked full out to provide some impressive Fosse-style choreography by Ann Reinking. This style of dance is synonymous with Chicago and always a pleasure to watch. It’s sexy, sultry and combined with the costuming, brings the heat!
Another standout performer for me was Jordan Lee Davies as Mary Sunshine. Wowing with his vocal range, reaching falsetto territory during ‘A Little Bit of Good’, Davies is extremely impressive. I’ve seen Jordan in a few productions in the past and his is always an animated, passionate performance with sensational stage presence. Ruling the corridors of the Cook County Jail is Mama Morton played by Victoria Anderson. Performing one of my favourite numbers from the show, ‘When You’re Good to Mama’, Anderson had the power and presence to show why she rules the roost.
This show has everything, including a sensational orchestra with Neil MacDonald at the helm, not only conducting, but also playing his part in the show. The orchestra are visible and present throughout the whole production in their custom built space, and boy were they are able to belt out those incredible Kander and Ebb tunes we all know and love. There were a couple of occasions where the band were slightly too loud and made hearing some of the performers a little difficult, but their enthusiasm was infectious and culminated in rapturous applause from the audience long after the performers had left the stage.
If you’re after a little bit of razzle dazzle in your life, head to see Chicago as it tours the country, you’d be a fool to miss it!
This production as reviewed on the 23rd June 2025 at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre where it runs until the 28th June 2025. Get your tickets here: Chicago | Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
For full tour details visit: Chicago the Musical | Official Site
Review written by Emma Rowley
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Photo credit : Paul Coltas
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