This isn’t a sponsored post.
BrumHour saw Chicago at the invite of The Alexandra.
By Dave Massey x.com/BrumHour
Chicago at The Alexandra: Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐”Sexy and stylish”
Music, book and lyrics by John Kander and Fred Ebb
Telling the story of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly in a women’s prison, this production highlights the seedy side of fame when reporters chase dark and bleak stories. They both seek the help of Mama Morton (for a fee), who puts in a phone call to the famous Billy Flynn.
Told in a caberet-style stage set, with sloping tiers housing the band, this production always feels like a late-night story for adults. The stark lighting and black costumes add to this sense of burlesque and Las Vegas showstopping numbers. I’ve seen this production several times over the years and the songs feel as fresh and bold as they have always done.
Brenda Edwards shines every second of her stage moments with her signature tones and powerful voice filling the theatre. Janette Manrara is fun, talented and brilliantly chaotic as Roxie whilst Djalenga Scott is excellent returning to the role of Velma. I’d not seen Dan Burton as Billy Flynn previously and he takes the role as his own, suitably Rat Pack style.
Razzle Dazzle is still my favourite song but you’ll probably have your own.
This is a sold-out week at The Alexandra who always bring huge shows to their stage right by Birmingham New Street Station and it is wonderful to visit this theatre to see any performances, but this is a show that I will see again and again at every chance I get.
Sexy and stylish, Chicago is at The Alexandra until 19th April 2025. See the UK Tour website here: chicagothemusical.com/uk-tour and check out upcoming productions at The Alexandra here: atgtickets.com/venues/alexandra-theatre-birmingham.
