A disclaimer. I first saw this production of the classic, jazz age musical Chicago last year at the Wolverhampton Grand. I loved it, Chicago is in my top three musicals of all time, so no surprises there. But on that occasion, leading lady Faye Brookes was not available to play Roxie, which was disappointing, as I had read rave reviews of her performance. So last night, as the production moved onto The Alexandra, was a chance to view her acclaimed performance, as well as once again having the opportunity to enjoy this always fabulous show. Was it worth the wait? Absolutely. Chicago is once again stunning and Faye is a total marvel as the irrepressible Roxie.

Chicago is the sexiest, sleekest, and in some ways, most outrageous musical of them all. Kander and Ebb followed up the decadence of Cabaret with more decadence, as the tale of the two scintillating murderesses of Cook County is bought to life through sinuous dances and glorious ragtime style songs. There are no redeeming characters in Chicago, with maybe the exceptions of poor, cuckolded Amos Hart, and the innocent Hungarian accused Hunyak, all are on the make, and in the case of Mama Morton and Billy Flynn, all are also on the take.

Roxie, and her elegant co- murderess Velma, are dream roles for any actress to play, and Faye Brookes and Djalenga Scott are just brilliant in them, having a fantastic chemistry as they bounce bitchy lines off each other. Faye plays Roxie to perfection, all sweetly saccharine to her public, but totally hard boiled once the press disappear. Djalengo is the most incredible dancer, and her slinky performance of ‘All the Jazz’ totally sets the scene for what follows.

The supporting cast is also a dream. Sinitta sounds wonderful, particularly on the poignant duet with Velma ‘Class’, whilst Darren Day has just the right amount of knowingness to play Billy Flynn as he should be played, adding a Frank Sinatra edge to his musical numbers, including the brilliant Razzle Dazzle. Joel Montague is a wonderful ‘Mr Cellophane’ Amos Hart, he plays him as a totally sympathetic figure and certainly has the audience on his side. BE Wong is another total star, singing like a dream as Mary Sunshine, the reporter who is not all that she seems.

Every element of Chicago is classy, from the all black costumes, to the sparse set that allows for a real band to be on stage, bringing down the house with their opening for act 2 ‘Entr’acte. The songs are all wonderful, there is not one false note, with Cellblock Tango and We both reached for the gun being standouts. When the music stops and Chicago ends, you are left wanting more.

Chicago is decadent, glamorous, dangerous and totally wonderful. A truly classic show.

Chicago

Sharing is caring!