MILWAUKEE — The cast and creative team of “Chicago” showed Milwaukee audiences Tuesday night that the show is actually “all jazz.”
With Taylor Lane (Velma Kelly) and Ellie Rudi (Roxy Hart) leading the show, how could it not?
“Chicago” starts off strong with a stunning and impressive set; True to its original form, the choreography (Ann Reinking, styled by Bob Fosse; Gregory Butler, recreating the production's original choreography) is captivating from the start, and maintains its stamina throughout the show.
(Jeremy Daniel)
Lynn is the first of the two leading ladies to take the stage, rising from the floor to center stage – flanked by the band. Yes, just like the Broadway show of “Chicago,” “The Chicago Ensemble” performs live on stage alongside the cast, providing not only an opportunity for fun and quirky interactions between the performers, but also for the audience to truly appreciate the entire cast. The talent it takes to put on a show for this action. The band playing on stage is something I would never change about Chicago and I'm so glad the touring production maintained that element. It's simply fun.
(Jeremy Daniel)
Another constant presence on stage is the band. Each member is an absolutely amazing dancer. Zoie Lee (Go-To-Hell-Kitty) and Timothy Scott Brausch (The Bailiff/The Clerk) are standouts – something that's hard to do when you're surrounded by mesmerizing talent. The band certainly pays a beautiful tribute to Fosse-style dancing, while showcasing their own strength and modern flair. The high jumps, stunning lines, and sharp yet smooth movements are abundant, and anyone who appreciates dance technique will surely fall in love with this group as much as I did.
(Jeremy Daniel)
With such a strong backbone, it's no surprise that Lynn and Rudy (ARC/Patrick Maravilla) are perfectly cast as Velma and Roxy, respectively.
Lin makes an intelligent, mature and sexy film. She embodies the killer perfectly, her powerful voice powerful and captivating but not overbearing. Favorite solos include “When Velma Takes the Stand” and “I Can't Do It Alone.”
Rudy plays the complex, lovable and funny Roxy. With her gorgeous dancing and sweet, commanding voice, she leads the show with razor-sharp charisma and perfect timing. Favorite solos include “Funny Honey” and “Roxie.”
The two leads have amazing vocals mixed with rhythm and emotion in the song “My Own Best Friend.”
The supporting cast offers an array of talent as well. Andrew Metzger (Amos Hart) had the entire audience laughing the entire show with perfect physical comedy timing and gave a great rendition of “Mr. Cellophane.” Connor Sullivan (Billy Flynn) presented a stubborn but engaging character. Ileana “Ellie” Kervin (Matron “Mama” Morton) wowed the entire house with her rendition of “When You're Good to Mama.”
The popular “Cellblock Tango” featured a unique character segment from the six actresses portraying the hilarious murders at the Cook County Jail. Standouts include Eliza Levy (Liz, aka the woman who kills her husband over his love interest) and Christina Youngblood (Annie, aka the woman who kills her husband after finding out he has six wives), who were my absolute favorites during this number . I followed them throughout the show and they certainly did not disappoint, maintaining their energy, stamina and magic throughout the entire performance. However, if you're expecting a traditional “Cellblock Tango” like you've seen before, this number won't be your cup of tea. But sometimes change is good. Seeing artists take risks is one of the best parts of live theater, after all.
(Jeremy Daniel)
“Chicago” is as funny and fun as it is exciting and thrilling, and, in my opinion, a must-see musical.
“Chicago” runs at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts from January 14-19. You can find ticket information here.
