The Lyric Theatre, QPAC in Brisbane came alive with the electrifying rhythms, sultry performances, and Fosse-inspired choreography as “Chicago: The Musical” made its triumphant return to the Queensland stage for its limited run. The new cast brought a fresh energy to this iconic Broadway production, breathing new life into the timeless tale of crime, passion, and redemption.
Zoë Ventoura as Velma Kelly delivered a show-stopping performance that was both seductive and mischievous. Her rendition of the well-known opening number, “All That Jazz,” was breathtaking, setting the tone for a night filled with criminally charismatic moments. Ventoura’s chemistry with Lucy Maunder, who portrayed the playful and sultry Roxie Hart, was undeniable, especially in their vaudeville tour de force, “Hot Honey Rag,” which left the audience in awe.
Lucy Maunder’s Roxie was a force of nature, weaving together the complexities of Roxie Hart’s personality with finesse and flair. The collaboration with her ensemble boys added an extra layer of excitement, making “Roxie” an unforgettable moment in a night filled with theatrical brilliance. Maunder effortlessly shifted between playful flirtation and the character’s deeper, more contemplative moments.
Anthony Warlow, a legend in his own right, played the charismatic attorney Billy Flynn with irresistible charm. His renditions of “Razzle Dazzle” and “All I Care About Is Love” were enthralling as he navigated the intricate web of deceit to help the women accused of murder.
Peter Rowsthorn, known for his comedic chops in Kath and Kim, brought a perfect balance of humor and heartbreak to the role of Amos Hart, delivering a poignant performance as the invisible in “Mister Cellophane”, even the conductor didn’t notice him.
As Matron ‘Mama’ Morton, Asabi Goodman delivered a commanding performance and excelled in her rendition of the power ballad “When You’re Good to Mama.” Her portrayal skillfully balanced a sinister yet empowering quality, grounding the character in a down-to-earth authenticity. Goodman’s performance seamlessly complemented Zoë Ventoura’s Velma, creating a dynamic synergy that was particularly evident in their collaborative musical number, ‘Class.’
S. Valeri embodied the role of Mary Sunshine, delivering a positively entertaining performance as the Evening Star’s chief reporter. Sung with charm, the number “A Little Bit of Good” showcased Valeri’s ability to portray a character who falls for Velma and Roxie’s fabricated tales.
The ensemble of triple threats seamlessly pulled the show together with their incredible Bob Fosse-inspired choreography. From the nuanced and tight moves in “All That Jazz” to the captivating storytelling by the women in “Cell Block Tango,” the ensemble added depth and flair to every scene. The boys in the ensemble dazzled in the slick and suave “When Velma Takes the Stand,” while the company’s reactions in “We Both Reached for the Gun” as Roxie is being puppeteered by Billy Flynn brought humor and clever staging to the forefront.
The ensemble and swings comprises Hayden Baum, Devon Braithwaite, Olivia Carniato, Angelique Cassimatis, Todd Dewberry, Louis Fontaine, Sarah Heath, Scout Hook, Matthew Jenson, Ethan Jones, Savannah Lind, Kristina McNamara, Tom New, Nathan Pinnell, Rania Potaka-Osborne, Priscilla Stavrou and Romina Villafranca.
“Chicago: The Musical” is a must-see classic that has graced Brisbane for a limited time, captivating audiences with its Fosse movement, exciting characters, and addictive 1920s inspired hit songs. With its limited run ending on 4 February, before touring Australia to Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide, theatre enthusiasts should seize the opportunity to witness this spectacular production live on stage. “Chicago” proves once again that some stories are timeless, and the criminally alluring roaring twenties can still captivate audiences today.
TICKETS
Now playing until 4 February at Lyric Theatre, QPAC
All images supplied.
The Fame Reporter 