The sensational musical performance of 'Chicago' at Stage 284 is an outstanding evening of entertainment.

Chicago: A Roaring 1920s Musical

Looking for a night of entertainment and thrill? Look no further than Stage 284's production of Chicago, the dazzling musical set in the roaring 1920s. This riveting performance takes us on a journey through the sensational murder trial of Roxie Hart, who seeks advice from the famous vaudevillian Velma Kelly and her lawyer, Billy Flynn. As the trial unfolds, the city of Chicago is in uproar, making for an unforgettable night of theater.

The opening night of Stage 284's Chicago was nothing short of spectacular. From the immensely talented cast to the showstopping numbers, this performance is a must-see. Lauren Abramson and Meaghan DelGenio deliver powerhouse performances as Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, respectively. The actresses truly embody their characters' energy, sass, and vocal abilities, making for an unforgettable performance. I particularly enjoyed their on-stage rivalry as they fought for media attention.

The gender-swapped portrayal of Billy Flynn by Ursina Amsler was a welcome addition to the show. Amsler brought a new flare to the character, portraying Roxie as a puppet during the number "We Reached for the Gun" to win over the reporters and judge. Michael DeFillippi's portrayal of Amos Hart was equally delightful, earning applause for his musical number, "Mister Cellophane." Branigan Reed's grand entrance as Matron "Mama" Morton was a show-stealer, with her signature song "When You're Good to Mama."

The talented ensemble of dancers and performers lit up the stage, showcasing energetic dance numbers and expressive spectator scenes during the trial. Some performers even showcased their acrobatic skills, performing splits, juggling, and balancing on their heads. "Cell Block Tango" was the most entertaining number of the night, with a group of female prisoners trapped behind jail cells and rhythmically tapping to the beat as they expressed their dark stories of revenge.

The technical aspects of the show were equally impressive, with a stunning set that greeted audiences as they entered the theater. With stairways leading from the balcony and a neon sign illuminating the show's title, the set was accompanied by a white sheet that cast shadows of the actors' dramatic feelings. The costumes, hair, wigs, and makeup were also noteworthy, accurately capturing the 1920s era.

The live orchestra of talented musicians sitting right backstage added another layer of excitement to the performance. The show opens with the lively number "All That Jazz," followed by other memorable songs like "All I Care About is Love," "Me and My Baby," and "Razzle Dazzle."

The cast and crew worked tirelessly to bring this telling of Chicago to life. Directors Katie Clarke-Robertson and Eden Tomaszewski collaborated with the cast to create a performance that truly stands out. Their passion and hard work were evident in every aspect of the show, making for an unforgettable evening.

Audience reaction is an essential part of the theater experience, and the Chicago performance did not disappoint. The audience was fully engaged, clapping, laughing, and responding in all the right places. Theater has a unique way of bringing communities together, and Chicago did just that.

However, fair warning, Chicago may not be appropriate for younger audiences due to its dark and risque themes, with murder as the main theme.

In conclusion, well done to the cast and crew of Chicago for a successful opening night. Running until March 12, tickets are selling fast. Each performance is unique, with different sets of casts, so be sure to catch this sensational musical before it's too late. Chicago is a roaring 1920s musical that will leave you on the edge of your seat, so don't miss