Chicago – Regent Theatre Stoke on Trent

Chicago – Regent Theatre Stoke on Trent 25^th November 2024

Review by Sue Graham, Hitmix Radio

The touring theatre production of Chicago rolled into Hanley this week and the performance did not disappoint.  The vibrant music that is the heart of the show was fantastic.  There was no elaborate set – the orchestra filled the centre of the stage with the surrounding area simply set with black backgrounds and players dressed in black which added to the sexy sensuality of the dance and music.

The show is set in 1920s Chicago and is a mix of glamour, jazz and prohibition fuelled criminal activities run by gangsters.  Women caught up in this found themselves drawn into criminal activity and were imprisoned for fighting back with many imprisoned for murders.  Two of the main characters Roxy Hart and Velma Kelly are both competing for attentions in the press and of Billy Flynn the unscrupulous lawyer renowned for getting some of these women freed.

Roxy Hart played by Faye Brookes (better know by Corrie fans as Kate Conner) is imprisoned for murdering her lover with her hapless husband Amos standing by her.  Velma Kelly played by Djalenga Scott, perfectly embodied the sensuality of the music and dance.  Strictly come dancing’s Kevin Clifton played Billy Flynn and really showed off his singing voice.  Sinitta Malone played “momma Morton” and despite her tiny size she filled the stage with her presence and voice.

All in all the show was a treat of jazz music and dance with the orchestra playing the audience out to “all that Jazz” and many members of the audience were dancing as they walked out the theatre.  A great watch.