Chicago, UK Tour Review (2025)
Written by Emmie for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
From the opening blast of trombone and trumpet, the goosebumps begin—and this revival of the original 1996 Broadway smash hit is a stunner of a production. Chicago dazzles with the unforgettable glitz, glamour, and foot-tapping tempo of its 1920s story, and it's now embarking on a brand-new UK tour.
At the helm of this Prohibition-era tale is nightclub dancer Roxie Hart. From the moment the curtain rises, we’re thrust straight into the action as she murders her lover when he threatens to leave her. To avoid the death penalty, Roxie hires Billy Flynn, the slickest lawyer in town. Did you know the story is based on true events? In 1924, Beulah Annan shot her lover dead and, with the help of a charismatic attorney, stirred public sympathy for her case. Dubbed “the prettiest woman ever charged with murder in Chicago” by journalist Maurine Watkins, Annan became the inspiration for Watkins’ play, which was later adapted into the musical that continues to captivate audiences today. The 2002 film adaptation, starring Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renée Zellweger, further cemented its popularity.
Behind the musical stands the legendary trio of Kander, Ebb, and Fosse. Their artistic chemistry delivers all the ingredients of a great show: sharp, relatable characters, a sultry jazz-blues score, precise choreography, and gripping emotional drama. It's no surprise that Chicago remains a crowd-pleaser well into the 21st century.
Taking centre stage in this production is the outstanding 10-piece band, led by the Musical Director Neil MacDonald. Not only does MacDonald conduct the sultry jazz-blues score with flair, but he also steps into the spotlight himself, introducing characters, songs, and snippets of the storyline. The strength of Chicago lies heavily in the delivery of its score, and this exceptional band seizes every opportunity to integrate itself into the storytelling, especially vital in a production that’s deliberately sparse on scenery.
The ensemble in this production are nothing but flawless. Their slick, commanding stage presence breathes life into Fosse's iconic choreography with precision, elegance, and power. Nowhere is this more evident than in the electrifying “Cell Block Tango.” As the dancers’ legs kick sky-high and their eyes lock with the audience, it creates a magnetic energy that defines the first half. I’d forgotten just how easy it is to be swept away by the sheer beauty and impact of Chicago’s choreography—until seeing it performed live in this new touring production. Fosse’s choreography is a dying art we no longer see enough of on the stage so to see it shine the way it does in Chicago is fundamental for this classic musical.
This revival also boasts a star-studded cast, a major draw for audiences. Djalenga Scott as Velma Kelly and Strictly Come Dancing star Janette Manrara as Roxie Hart make for a dynamic power duo at the helm of this musical. I was completely absorbed in the push-and-pull of their love/hate relationship as they vied for the spotlight. Scott channels her wealth of stage experience into a fierce, commanding Velma, bringing both grit and glamour to the role. Manrara, making her musical theatre debut, surprises and delights with her charisma, razor-sharp timing, and, unsurprisingly, exceptional movement. Together, they deliver vocals full of flair and emotion, perfectly complementing one another in both harmony and tension. Their chemistry is electric, elevating the show’s central dynamic and breathing fresh life into these iconic roles.
The showstoppers within this show didn’t stop there with Brenda Edwards’ portrayal of Mama Morton, particularly in her performance of "When You're Good To Mama" which blew off the roof of the Leicester Curve. Other performances of the night that definitely stood out for me were in Mary Sunshine (Jordan Lee Davies), who absolutely shines in this role. Whereas Joshua Lloud delivers a beautiful, poignant "Mr Cellophane" and certainly knows how to make his audience feel every breath of his vulnerability.
After seeing this UK production of Chicago, it really will be the name on everybody’s lips. It’s a feel-good show for the soul, and the songs will be stuck in your head long after the curtain falls.
Chicago continues its UK tour until August 2025
★★★★★
