Let’s face it, CHICAGO is the sexiest, most beautifully choreographed and tightly crafted musical in global history. The 2016 UK tour is no exception….
Some 40+ years since the show first took to the stage, it is as relevant today as it was when Ford was President.
Bob Fosse’s unique choreography is still electrifying, exciting and sexier than the cast of Geordie Shore at a naked lock-in at Oddbins.
This cast are totally delicious! Possibly the hottest I’ve seen either on tour, in the West End or Broadway. Such vocal & physical precision and perfect timing. A joy to watch.
Led by the sensational Sophie Carmen-Jones who is the epitome of Velma Kelly, John Partridge as a compelling Billy Flynn and a defining role for Hayley Tamaddon as Roxy – it’s the standard that all touring productions should aspire.
The show is about media manipulation, PR & narcissistic celebrities who are willing to do anything for exposure and attention….without any shame.
To think that whilst I was sat at the Nottingham Royal Concert Hall watching this play about ‘me me me’ from 1926, millions are sat at home watching 10 dopey celebs in the Big Brother house with the same desire! Nothing has changed.
Sexy. Hysterical. Stunning Choreography – 5*
Chicago plays at Nottingham RCH through Aug 20th.
The show got off to a bad start tonight with the announcement that headliner Jessie Wallace was not available. A boo is never a good start.
It didn’t go unnoticed that a missing ‘celebrity’ had absolutely no impact on the quality of this magnificent production….who was presumably only booked ‘for the poster’ to promote this near sold out tour. Curious.
Anywho, the orchestra at CHICAGO are always remarkable. A tremendous brass section which is electrifying throughout.
The score/lyrics by Kander & Ebb are faultless. A masterclass in pacing, structure, light and shade and overall musical brilliance.
The sound in the mammoth 2300 seater Nottingham RCH was perfect – not an easy task. Kudos to the team.
I was especially impressed by Hayley Tamaddon this evening. I’ve seen her many times over the years, this to me is her defining moment as a theatre artiste. A huge role made to look effortless. Such charm, wit and a gloriously powerful yet tender voice.
As for Sophie Carmen-Jones, she’s a piece of work. What a Star born to play this role. She steals the show with her magnetic personality, stunning beauty and remarkable physicality.
Partridge did a great job as Flynn. With a vile creepiness on par with media master-class manipulator Max Clifford – John played this cold character with no moral compass to perfection. It’s not a role for glory, likeability or laughs – however, his belting voice was clear to all during the beautifully staged ‘Razzle Dazzle’. He’s a pro.
We’ve covered CHICAGO in the West End and on Broadway for over 15 years. Check-out interviews with Stars including Jerry Springer, Gina Murray, Michelle Williams, Brent Barrett & more CLICK HERE!
This musical is a masterclass in Live theatre. It has a simplicity that lets the ‘play’ shine whilst the choreography and score is off the scale. Perfect.
5* precision, talent, casting and feel good factor.
There’s a profound take-away from this musical. Am I less important, less talented and less of a human being because I don’t have as many Twitter followers as Justin Bieber? If you ask most in the ‘media’ under 30 they might agree. I’ll leave it with you….
Review by Alex Belfield for Celebrity Radio 16th August 2016.
Leave a Reply