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Chicago
The Musical
Book by Fred Ebb & Bob Fosse
Music by John Kander
Lyrics by Fred Ebb
Directed by Walter Bobbie
Choreography by Gary Chryst
Re-created Ann Reinking
who used the Bob Fosse style
Musical Direction Vincent Fanuele
Produced by Broadway In Chicago
At The Cadillac Palace Theatre
151 W. Randolph
Chicago, IL
Call 312-902-1400, tickets $25 - $78
Tuesdays at 7:30 PM
Wednesdays at 2 & 7:30 PM
Thursdays at 7:30 PM
Fridays at 8 PM
Saturdays at 2 & 8 PM
Sundays at 2 & 7:30 PM
Running time 2 hrs 30 minutes with intermission
Through December 4, 2005
“Give them the old razzle dazzle…razzle dazzle them”
Brassy Chicago sizzles once more
Despite the terrific film version, Chicago on stage still reigns. As many times as I have seen Chicago razzle dazzle, this production reached me than any other. I think it was the flawless Bob Fosse-style dance or maybe Kander & Ebb’s score or maybe the vibrant orchestra or maybe all of the above? I loved this toe-tapping, slick, sensual, almost erotic musical. Chicago proves that you don’t necessarily need a lavish set or flashy costumes to mount a hit musical. Rather a bouncy ’20 jazz score set to clever lyrics combined with trade mark Bob Fosse-styled dances expertly performed with a variety of musical styles are all that is needed for a wonderful show. Chicago is sophisticated, stylish adult entertainment.
From the moment you hear the jazzy whining of the horns and the hypnotic rhythms of “All That Jazz” and see the boys and girls sleekly moving in unison, you know you’re in for a treat. John Kander’s music has a jazz based style with a tango, waltz, blues and unique dance-inspiring hauntingly melodies that cry out for movement. Chicago is signature Bob Fosse style, sleek, sexy, smooth, swift and sophisticated featuring arm and leg movements that evolve into unique formations and energetic interaction among the dancers resulting in pure erotic pulsating rhythms.
The story is about woman who kill their lovers and flaunt justice in a Roaring ‘20’s satirical fable that jabs at society and the legal system. Paige Davis is the sexy Roxie Hart and Brenda Braxton is Velma Kelly—both are outstanding triple threats, each can sing, are fine comic actors—and both are marvelous dancers. Davis brings cuteness to Roxie while Braxton is the more sensual Velma. Both land their songs and dances deftly. The show ending duets: “Nowadays” and “Hot Honey Rag” danced and sang perfectly.
The ensemble was the finest I’ve seen dancing Ann Reinking-Bob Fosse style numbers. “Roxie,” “Tap Dance” and the show stopper “Razzle Dazzle” were slick and flawless. I’ve not witness Fosse dances better performed. The ladies justify their crimes with the haunting “Cell Block Tango.”
Tom Wopat brings a big voice and a commanding presence to the shyster Billy Flynn. His “All I Care About” and “Razzle Dazzle” lead the way. Carol Woods, as Matron Morton, belted “When You’re Good to Mama” and the sarcastic “Class” with Brenda Braxton skillfully. Kevin Carolan wins our hearts as the loser Amos Hart as he tenderly delivers “Mister Cellophane.”
This touring production is fresh, energetic, funny and well rehearsed featuring an “A” list ensemble of Broadway veteran dance pros. The orchestra, under Vincent Fanuele’s direction, sounded terrific with exceptional horn work. Kander’s tuneful score is in good hands here.
If you want to see an expert Broadway musical, this production of Chicago sure qualifies. If you’ve never seen Chicago and/or you’ve only seen the film, then do get to the Cadillac Palace to witness the “real” Chicago. There is nothing like a Bob Fosse dance show. Chicago is Fosse’s best. It is thrilling and so polished. Kudos to Broadway In Chicago for bringing back this classic.
Not To Be Missed
Tom Williams
Tom99@chicagocritic.com for comments
Chicago Stage Talk Radio Show
November 22, 2005
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