Chicago The Musical At Liverpool Empire Review

Reviewed by Kathryn Harrison

I doubt there’s many people who haven’t heard of Chicago The Musical, the original production was first performed on Broadway in 1975 and has been popular ever since. The current touring production is based upon the original, timeless choreography and direction of Bob Fosse. It has all the songs and performances that audiences know and love whilst still feeling fresh and entertaining.

For anyone who has managed to completely miss this show and the 2002 film adaptation, Chicago is set in Chicago, Illinois in the late 1920’s era of gangsters, jazz and prohibition. Roxy Hart, played by Faye Brookes, and Velma Kelly, played by Djalenga Scott, are two of the many women held on Murderess Row in the Cook County Jail. With help from Matron ‘Mama’ Morton and lawyer Billy Flynn these women use their notoriety, beauty and Billy’s stories to help them evade the hangman’s noose.

Russell Watson was clearly an audience favourite as Billy Flynn, whilst his singing talent is undeniable I was also impressed with his ability to bring the character to laugh and enjoyed his interactions with Roxy and Velma. Another sensational singer showing their acting skills was the wonderful Sheila Ferguson. Ferguson really embodied the part of Mama Morton. I especially enjoyed the song Class she sang with Djalenga Scott as Velma. Two superb singers singing a brilliant song that was cut from the movie adaptation.

Whilst all the lead actors were excellent, it was the way the whole company and band worked together to bring this show to life. Rather than being in the musicians pit, in this show the band dominate the stage. I’ve never seen this on stage before and found it fascinating to watch the musicians perform. Lead by Musical Director Andrew Hilton the band became a character in their own right, working alongside the actors rather than being hidden away. It also helped to evoke the feeling of being in a jazz speak easy during that time. With the band taking up so much space the props and sets on stage were minimal, in some shows this could feel boring and empty but it’s testament to all the dancers and performers that they kept the audience’s interest piqued the whole time. Watching how the dancers moved their bodies and worked together in harmony was mesmerizing, they were all without exception amazing. It felt very fitting that each performer was mentioned by name at the end of the show for the audience to show their appreciation.

My favourite song in this show was Mister Cellophane, performed by Jamie Baughan playing Roxy’s downtrodden Husband Amos. Jamie won the audience over with a perfect mix of pity and humour, an understated character who makes a big impact.

It’s always a pleasure to visit the Liverpool Empire however at the moment with roadworks continuing on Lime Street and COVID checks taking longer at the theatre doors I would recommend ensuring you arrive at the theatre with plenty of time to spare.

This a show that every musical fan should see at least once, and more if possible. It’s easy to understand why audiences have loved the show for nearly fifty years and why it’s an absolute classic!

Rating: 5/5

Tickets cost from £13 plus £3.65 transaction fee.

Chicago is at The Liverpool Empire from Monday 7th February to Saturday 12th February.

For more information or to book tickets visit www.atgtickets.com/Liverpool or call the box office on 08448717615

Liverpool Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool L1 11JE