Review: Bristol Hippodrome’s all-star Chicago production is the best musical I’ve seen so far this year
It is one of those legendary musicals, and the current production of Chicago at Bristol Hippodrome lives up to expectations.
From the moment the show begins, the fantastic on-stage orchestra kicks off what is a 2-hour 30-minute high-energy jazz and drama experience.
Despite the minimal set - with the jazz band occupying most of the stage - the show’s gripping murder-themed story kept me engaged from start to finish.
In addition to the brilliant music, a strong storyline, and incredible dancing and singing, the show is underpinned by the talent of its all-star cast.
Coronation Street’s Faye Brookes shines as the conniving Roxie, displaying excellent on-stage chemistry with Djalenga Scott as Velma. Both portray jail inmates in 1920s Chicago, accused of murdering the men in their lives.
And then there’s the phenomenally talented Brenda Edwards as Mama Morton, who commands the stage every time she appears, showcasing incredible vocals as well.
Also featured is Strictly dancer Kevin Clifton as the smooth-talking lawyer Billy Flynn. He had a long queue of women waiting for his autograph at the stage door at the end of the show.
In addition to its many strengths, the show also offers some hilarious comedy, with performances from Roxie’s gullible husband Amos (Joshua Lloyd) and the equally gullible journalist Mary Sunshine (Jordan Lee Davies) adding to the entertainment.
The songs, besides being catchy, also include a touch of dark comedy. For instance, take Cell Block Tango, which explores how female jail inmates rationalise the murder of the men in their lives.
Despite the limited staging and somewhat disjointed narrative, the skill of the jazz band and the strong performances of the cast truly transport you to the late 1920s in Chicago.
The show keeps you engaged until the end to see if Roxie manages to escape jail and evade justice, as well as achieve the fame she craves.
I would go so far as to say that Chicago is the best musical I have seen at Bristol Hippodrome so far this year because of its excellent storyline, music, cast and comedy.
Chicago is showing at Bristol Hippodrome until Saturday, May 24. For tickets, visit www.atgtickets.com/shows/chicago/bristol-hippodrome/