Chicago, Alhambra, Bradford
The recent revival of the musical Chicago has enjoyed massive success in the West End.
On seeing the production as it comes to the Alhambra it is easy to see why it wowed critics and audiences. It is a show where style triumphs over story, song and setting, and star-turns ensure there is just enough substance.
The result is a show that is very good without being great, and while wowing some, will leave others cold.
The setting is a Chicago prison in the 1920s where the women inmates are presenting a revue.
The story follows Roxie Hart as she faces trial for shooting her lover. The songs are rooted firmly in the era, jazz to the fore, and while catchy on first listening, few are memorable.
It's all in the style: Serious, sexy and soaked in black, from costumes to band to what little scenery there is.
The women wear bras, knickers, tights, hotpants and mini-dresses, and the men ... not sure, didn't look, but I think it involved leather waistcoats and fishnet t-shirts.
On Tuesday's opening night, Leyla Pellagrini ( standing in for Jane Fowler) and Amra-Faye Wright were terrific in the leading roles, the dancing was stunning and the music was electric. My only reservation was that the vaudeville presentation prevented the audience becoming truly immersed in the show.
*Alhambra theatre, Bradford until April 20, phone 01274 752000.
David Knights
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