The launch of a new national tour of the musical “Chicago” also marks the first co-presentation of the new partnership between Seattle Theatre Group and the 5th Avenue Theatre.
It is a spectacular beginning. “Chicago” is full of spirit, talent, and attitude. The dancing, in particular, will knock your socks off.
“Chicago” won six 1997 Tony Awards and the Grammy Award for best musical cast recording and is the longest-running American musical in Broadway history.
Velma Kelly (Claire Marshall) is Roxie Hart’s prison rival in “Chicago.”
‘Chicago’ review: what to know
Here’s how the plot is described: “Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, CHICAGO is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who maliciously murders her on-the-side lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, she hires Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer to transform her malicious crime into a barrage of sensational headlines …”
But this story is told not as a drama but more like a vaudeville review, as is all very helpfully explained in an introduction by the 5th’s Beth Pollack in the program.
I especially enjoyed the fact that the orchestra was on stage and the conductor was part of the drama at times. The show’s second act opened with a long medley and featured solos. This former pit musician loves seeing these talented people get their moment to shine.
Publicity information suggests “Chicago” as a good “starter” musical for the uninitiated. Certainly no one will be bored! It is requested that no one under 13 attend. There is the suggestion of crime, but no violence or gore, and there is some sexual innuendo.
“Chicago” will be on stage at the 5th Avenue through Sunday, Nov. 2 (no shows Monday, Oct. 27). Find full schedule and ticket information here. Note that tickets are already limited for some performances.
