By: Music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb, book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse
Synopsis: Set in the 1920s, "Chicago" is a satirical take on crime and celebrity culture, revolving around Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, two murderesses seeking fame and acquittal.
Review: Having experienced "Chicago" both on Broadway in 2011 and, more recently, at QPAC, I can attest to the stark difference between the two renditions. The Broadway performance left me with a stale and forgettable impression, but this year's production at QPAC was nothing short of a theatrical revelation, earning a stellar 9/10 from me. The QPAC revival breathed new life into the satirical world of crime and celebrity culture in 1920s Chicago. Every element, from casting to staging, vocals to orchestration, exceeded expectations. The decision to have the orchestra on stage added a dynamic layer to the overall experience. A standout feature was the phenomenal energy brought by the dancers and the brilliance of the choreography. Their performance elevated the entire production, making it a testament to the enduring quality of "Chicago" as a theatrical masterpiece. Roxie, portrayed as a true triple threat, emerged as the highlight of the show for me. Her delightful humour and exceptional talents showcased the character in a new light. Velma, while slightly off-character, compensated with her incredible singing and movement. Despite Anthony Warlow's age seeming too old for the character's portrayal, he made up for it with a fantastic rendition of ‘We Both Reached for the Gun’ and 'Razzle Dazzle'. Mama delivered a memorable performance and an extraordinary rendition of her solo.
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