CHICAGO the Musical at Capitol Theatre
CHICAGO the musical returns to the Capitol Theatre in Sydney with one of the best casts assembled in a new production that features incredible sensuality, razzle-dazzle and 'All That Jazz'.
It’s not often that a show comes to Sydney that epitomises everything great about Broadway. However, the new Australian production of the legendary musical Chicago ticks all the boxes as it elegantly struts into Sydney at the Capitol Theatre for a limited run before continuing its tour around the rest of Australia.
The captivating musical tells a tale set in the roaring 1920s, where a number of women turn to murder to gain notoriety and fame. Much of this publicity came from their trials being reported in the newspapers of the time, as these women wooed the male jurors in court with their good looks and risqué outfits. As a result they were acquitted, having brief stints of fame rivalling the silent film stars of the era. Unbelievably the story concept was based on true events that happened in Chicago in 1924.
The multiple Tony award winning show originally debuted in 1975 and starred the legendary Chita Rivera. The musical received a revival in 1996 starring Tony award winner Bebe Neuwirth. This version of the show was much sexier, offering a stripped down production featuring risqué outfits, seductive dancers reinterpreting the Bob Fosse choreography and a big brass band to feature on the stage. That very production is still running on Broadway today, and is the longest running American show in history. Chicago also has the privilege of being the longest running musical to be currently playing on Broadway after Phantom of the Opera closed following the pandemic.
The new production of the revival has arguably assembled the best ever cast and ensemble to feature in a musical in Australia. The headliner of the show is no doubt Anthony Warlow who takes on the role of the charismatic lawyer Billy Flynn. His stage presence is matched by the incredible talents of the show’s other two stars, Zoe Ventoura and Lucy Maunder who take on the roles of Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart.
Warlow is stunning on stage lending some much needed gravitas to the production. Is vocal prowess is sensational, which is only complimented by his charm and quick wit. Zoe Ventoura is vivacious and vicious in the role of Velma, stealing the stage each time she is on it. Not only does she provide incredible sexiness and sensuality to the role, but she also surprises with her vocal abilities. Her highlights include “All That Jazz” and the sensually satisfying ensemble piece “Cell Block Tango”.
Lucy Maunder saunters into the role of Roxie with a flirtatious and feisty performance that is very well thought out. She provides a multifaceted and multilayered version of the character that is unlike many other depictions, which can relegate Roxie to the ‘dumb broad’ attempting to make her way to the top. Maunder’s shining moments include “Roxie” and the dynamic duet “We Both Reached for the Gun”.
The surprise packet of the production is Peter Rowsthorn in the role of Amos Hart. For his limited stage time he is able to quickly find the essence of a character that can be easily overlooked. Rowsthorn’s fantastic comic timing is an incredible asset as he shares a great dynamic opposite Anthony Warlow.
Asabi Goodman is impressive in the role of Matron ‘Mama’ Morton. She is the perfect casting, providing the production with a tough and yet nurturing performance, especially within the context of the narrative. At the same time her soulful voice is fabulous, with the highlights being “When You're Good to Momma” and her thought provoking duet with Zoe Ventoura “Class”.
Chicago’s incredible ensemble also features a stellar line up of dancers who are quite possibly the best collection of performers to assemble on the Capitol Theatre stage. Absolute highlights include the amazing talents of Olivia Carniato, Angelique Cassimatis, Todd Dewberry, Chaska Halliday and Sarah Heath. Many of who were already well versed in the famous Bob Fosse choreography courtesy of their experience in the 2020 Australian production of Pippin.
In short, the new production of Chicago in Sydney is an absolute must see. For theatre lovers it is the closest they will get to see a Broadway quality production on Australian shores. It’s spectacular choreography, captivating sensuality and sexy plot set it apart from other musicals, making it a favourite for performers and audiences alike. The highly entertaining Chicago the musical plays at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney until the end of July. Get your tickets now!
- Chicago the Musical is now playing at Sydney's Capitol Theatre until 28 July, before touring Adelaide and Canberra.
