Review: Chicago At The Broward Center

BY SARAH SHARPE

Who would’ve thought that a tale of murder, sin, corruption, and greed could turn into such an enjoyable night at the theater? That’s exactly what I had when I went to see the opening night of Chicago: The Musical at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The longest running American musical on Broadway, Chicago tells the story of Roxie Hart, a married woman with big dreams and a gun which she uses to murder her secret lover. This lands her in Chicago’s Cook County Jail where she meets vaudevillian and fellow murderess, Velma Kelly. The two criminals compete for court dates, attention from the press, and fame.

A brilliant musical score by composers John Kander and Fred Ebb and choreography by the genius that is Bob Fosse combine to make the show a sheer delight.

All the jailbirds, especially lead actors Ann Horak, who plays Roxie, and Terra C. Macleod, who plays Velma, are enormously talented dancers who heat up the stage. The entire cast was also vocally strong, particularly Carol Woods, who plays Matron “Mama” Morton. Her performance of “When You’re Good to Mama” is a phenomenal show stopper, as is Macleod’s rendition of the opening number, “All That Jazz”.

Not to be outdone, the men in this show also shine, including Seinfeld’s John O’Hurley. O’Hurley gives a very likable performance as the smooth-talking lawyer, Billy Flynn, and Todd Buonopane is hilarious as Roxie’s husband Amos Hart.

What’s incredible about this show is how much of a story can be told with such a minimal set. The only scenery on stage is a box in which the orchestra resides, which is also used for entrances, exits, and playful banter between the actors and the conductor. Also, the sides of the stage are aligned with chairs in which the ensemble sits when they’re not performing. It is in this unique staging that the extraordinary choreography of Bob Fosse is showcased. Incorporating dance moves that are subtle, yet sharp, and always sensual, Fosse’s undeniable brilliance makes the musical a feast for the eyes.

Chicago is the perfect show to kick off the amazing line-up of Broadway shows coming this year to Fort Lauderdale. Like many shows at the Broward Center, with a student ID, you can purchase 2 tickets for $25 each. Student Rush tickets begin selling at the box office window 2 hours before each performance.