Chicago Teen Edition

It was my first visit to see Allstage Society, I was excited to see just how they would handle Chicago Teen Edition. The cast ranged in age 10 right up to 17 years old and I was pleased to note, in my humble opinion, that the costumes were kept age appropriate - it can be difficult in this particular production. So, well done to Wardrobe Mistress Jayne Collins. Sound by Andy Welsby and Hannah Welsby was definitely a bit sketchy the evening that I attended - it was very difficult to distinguish the words being sung over the loudness of the music, there needed to be a bit more balance in there. Also there were some delays with turning cast members radio mic`s on as soon as they were on stage.The lighting by Ian Young and Aaron Smith was sympathetic to the scenes with nothing that particularly stood out. The set was very minimalistic which worked in this performance space.  Props by Janet Hinchliffe helped set the scenes and kept the audience up to speed with scene movement. It is never easy working to tracks but Allstage did a good job, pace was good throughout. Make up and wigs looked in keeping with the style of the show.

Some nerves were evident in the principal cast, but they soon settled. Ellie Burns as Mama Morton just needed to slow her dialogue down a little bit - it can be difficult when you get on stage with an audience and the adrenalin kicks in. Alex Craven as Billy Flynn was confident from the first moment he set foot on the stage, he made a good connection with the audience, he gave some strong and solid vocals. Izzy Rogan as Velma Kelly owned her part – she looked the audience square in the eye with confidence and sass, it is not often to find a triple threat but she most definitely is one. Her fan kicks and drop splits were second to none as she belted out her musical numbers, she made the audience feel for her. She was very ably partnered by Deryn Francis as Roxie Hart, Deryn also made a superb connection with the audience and brought a strong performance.

The ensemble worked hard throughout, they made a huge effort with the fosse style choreography which needs to look so slick and synchronised. Personally, I would have preferred to see them all in matching tights, but that is me being super picky, I really liked the tableau finish to “Razzle Dazzle”. For a first ever musical production from a youth society you should be very proud of yourselves.

Thank you for inviting me. I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

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