The UK tour of Chicago, currently playing at the Regent Theatre in Stoke, delivers a polished and faithful production of this beloved musical. Under the direction of Walter Bobbie and featuring Ann Reinking’s choreography in the style of Bob Fosse, this Chicago captures the sultry and sharp-edged essence that has made the show a classic. While the production excels in many areas, it occasionally struggles to maintain the energy needed to elevate it to greatness.
The cast brings a wealth of talent and dedication to the stage. Faye Brookes shines as Roxie Hart, expertly charting the character’s journey from wide-eyed dreamer to a fame-driven diva. Her performance is both nuanced and charismatic, laced with a touch of delightful craziness that perfectly embodies Roxie’s escalating desperation and ambition.
Djalenga Scott, as Velma Kelly, is a revelation. A true triple threat, Scott commands attention with her impeccable vocals, razor-sharp dance moves, and an acting performance that balances vulnerability and ferocity. Her rendition of “All That Jazz” is a standout moment, setting a high bar for the show.
Kevin Clifton delivers a charmingly slick Billy Flynn, exuding the charisma needed for the role, while Sinitta’s limited run as Mama Morton is a treat. Sinitta brings humour and warmth to her portrayal, making her moments on stage memorable. Joshua Lloyd’s Amos Hart tugs at the heartstrings in “Mister Cellophane,” and Jordan Lee Davies provides a quirky take on Mary Sunshine, though the character itself feels somewhat underutilised in the broader narrative.
The ensemble deserves high praise for their tireless commitment to the demanding Fosse-inspired choreography. Their sharp, synchronised movements bring energy and precision to numbers like “Cell Block Tango” and “Razzle Dazzle,” firmly rooting the production in its vaudeville heritage.
Musically, the show is exceptional. The orchestra, positioned prominently on stage, is integral to the minimalist set design. Their spirited performance enhances every scene, and the musical director, who also serves as conductor, is cleverly woven into moments of comedy, adding a playful meta-theatrical touch.
The simplicity of the set design, however, feels like a missed opportunity. While it effectively highlights the performers and the band, it lacks the boldness or stylistic flair that could have elevated the visual experience. The lighting design, similarly, is inconsistent. At its best, it accentuates the mood and atmosphere; at its worst, it feels flat, failing to make key moments as striking as they could be.
Pacing is another area where the production falters. Chicago is known for its fast-moving, high-energy style, and while this tour captures that spirit in many places, there are noticeable dips in energy, particularly in transitional moments. This occasionally leaves the audience wanting more drive and urgency to sustain the show’s momentum.
The biting satire at the heart of Chicago remains as relevant today as ever. Its commentary on media sensationalism, public perception, and the corrupt pursuit of fame is sharply delivered, making it easy to draw parallels to contemporary society. The humour lands effectively, and the show’s darker undertones are handled with finesse.
That said, the narrative can feel overburdened. Certain elements, such as Mary Sunshine’s subplot, add little to the overall story, making parts of the show feel padded rather than purposeful. The core rivalry and interplay between Roxie and Velma remain compelling, but the surrounding strands sometimes distract rather than enhance.
This tour of Chicago is, at its heart, a tribute to everything that has made the musical an enduring classic. The cast’s performances, particularly those of Brookes and Scott, are exceptional, and the choreography pays fitting homage to Bob Fosse’s signature style. The production’s slickness and attention to detail are undeniable, but its occasional lack of energy and its overly simplistic staging hold it back from being truly outstanding.
For fans of the show, this is a faithful rendition that celebrates the timeless music, sultry choreography, and sharp satire of Chicago. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it delivers a satisfying night of razzle-dazzle decadence. This is the Chicago you know and love, brought to life by a talented and dedicated company.
Chicago plays at the Regent Theatre until Saturday 30th November 2024 where it will continue its tour.
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