Chicago Teen Edition

What a treat for the student led end of school year musical to take place at the Maddermarket Theatre in Norwich. Giving 10 students Directorial input, as well as giving the cast of 27 the opportunity to perform at a live theatre will be an unforgettable experience for all involved. I can only concur, from the programme notes, that the Directors and cast involved in this production will have learnt a great deal from the creative process and teamwork building skills that being part of this will bring.

The split-level set was well done, with bright neon lit letters spelling out “CHICAGO” to the rear, and barred window effects throughout to reflect the Cook County jail setting. The cast also brought on what looked like cleverly adapted manoeuvrable run-a-rails to deliver songs and script from what looked like from behind bars.  Sound quality was generally good, aside from the odd late microphone cue. On occasion, the supporting cast were somewhat underpowered vocally in the dance numbers, but this did not detract from the overall enjoyment of the production, and, being opening night, I am sure the volume would have increased as the run went on. Costumes were good, featuring all black for the female “prisoners”, and 30’s era suits and clothing for the men, and the choreography (Emily Fulcher), had been very well drilled.

The entry of the cast to the stage to deliver the opening number “All that Jazz”, had been cleverly managed, gradually adding them in groups through the rear of the auditorium and walking past both sides of the audience, from the upper level of the split set, as well as both side entrances directly onto the stage.

Jenny Lopes was excellent throughout as Velma Kelly, excelling in her vocals, movement, and characterisation. She set the tone brilliantly with a strong performance of “All That Jazz” in the opening number, followed by an equally impressive rendition of “I Can’t Do It Alone.” Ella Hurren was equally excellent as Roxie Hart, bringing grit and determination to the role. As one of the production’s co-directors, Ella’s ability to balance the demands of directing while delivering a leading performance was particularly noteworthy. Together, Jenny and Ella demonstrated excellent chemistry, combining to great effect in a very good performance of “My Own Best Friend.”

Harry Brookes delivered another good performance as Billy Flynn, the smooth-talking attorney. Balancing the demands of being both a co-director and a member of the cast, he brought confidence and charisma to the role, highlighted by a particularly strong rendition of “All I Care About Is Love”.

In the supporting roles, Eve Dixon was particularly enjoyable as Matron “Mama” Morton, bringing plenty of confidence to the role and delivering an excellent rendition of “When You’re Good to Mama.” Amos Hart, Roxie's understated and often overlooked husband, is a character that requires a careful balance of vulnerability and sincerity. Patrick Kemp handled the role well, particularly in “Mr. Cellophane,” successfully earning the audience’s sympathy.

Tallis Mitchell had excellent stage presence as crime reporter Mary Sunshine, and there were further good performances from Charlie Casey-Buckland as the Narrator, Jack Higginbottom as Fred Casely, and Adriel Nyamupfukudza as Officer Fogarty and the Judge. The various female “prisoners” and a large ensemble made up the rest of the cast for a very energetic and enjoyable production.

Thank you to everyone at Ormiston Victory Academy for a very entertaining evening.

 

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