The Enduring Allure of “Chicago”: A Timeless Musical
What makes a show that has garnered six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards, and a Grammy Award such a sensation? From April 23rd to 27th, the original Broadway production of “Chicago” is set to grace the stage of the Shanghai Poly Grand Theatre, transporting audiences back to the dazzling, decadent world of the 1920s. Since its debut in 1975, “Chicago” has captivated over 34 million viewers across more than 35,000 performances worldwide.
Why “Chicago” Remains Relevant After Half a Century
Why has “Chicago” remained so popular for so long? Its most compelling quality lies in its incisive critique of a corrupt era. While many musicals focus on elaborate song and dance numbers and extravagant sets, “Chicago” delves deeper, using sharp wit and keen observation to satirize a society obsessed with superficiality and expose the complexities of human nature. Its unique blend of dark humor, powerful performances, and unforgettable jazz tunes have solidified its status as a classic.
From Stage to Screen: A Legacy of Excellence
“Chicago” first premiered in 1975 at the 46th Street Theatre in New York, the brainchild of the legendary Bob Fosse. Based on real-life events, the musical tells the sensational story of Roxie Hart, a housewife, and Velma Kelly, a vaudeville performer, who find themselves incarcerated. With the help of lawyer Billy Flynn, they manipulate the media to escape the death penalty and achieve notoriety. Fosse infused the production with his own critique of a society obsessed with entertainment, reflecting the distortions and complexities of American society. By blending jazz, blues, tango, and other musical styles, “Chicago” paints a vivid picture of a society teetering between revelry and ruin.
“Chicago” is a true milestone in musical theater history. The 1996 revival swept the Tony Awards, winning six categories including Best Revival of a Musical, Best Director, Best Choreography, Best Actress, Best Actor, and Best Lighting Design. In 2003, the film adaptation of “Chicago” won six Academy Awards, breaking a 35-year drought for movie musicals in the Best Picture category.
The Shanghai Cast: A Stellar Ensemble
The Shanghai tour of “Chicago” boasts a talented cast, with Sarah Soetaert taking on the role of Roxie Hart. This role launched her career, leading to engagements at the Phoenix Theatre, Cambridge Theatre, and Garrick Theatre in London, as well as multiple international tours. Soetaert has also appeared in “Kiss Me, Kate” at the Victoria Palace Theatre, “Fame,” and led the world premiere of Walt Disney’s “101 Dalmatians” at the Royal Albert Hall.
“Gold-tongued lawyer” Billy Flynn will be portrayed by Alex Bourne, an Olivier Award nominee known for his transformative performances. From his cross-dressing role as Edna Turnblad in the touring production of “Hairspray” to his portrayal of the Beast in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” UK tour, Bourne consistently delivers memorable performances.