1:28pm Thursday 18th June 2009
By Simon Farr
CHICAGO is a story about murder, greed, corruption, violence, exploitation, adultery and treachery – and it remains as sassy, stylish and entertaining as ever.
Since Chicago opened in the West End in 1997 it has been viewed by millions of people, grossed more than £120m and seen some of the biggest names in showbiz take on some of the best loved roles in theatre.
The plot revolves around showgirl Roxie Hart's quest for fame and notoriety, who becomes a 'star' after murdering her lover. She meets her match in prison in the shape of Velma Kelly, a vaudevillian in jail for a bloody crime of passion and Roxie's competitor in publicity seeking.
Former Eastenders star Emma Barton is a fantastic Roxie and she is equally matched by her talented co-star Twinnie-Lee Moore (Velma) with the duo feeding off each other expertly in their respected character's quest to out do one another for stardom.
Musical royalty and Beaconsfield resident Gary Wilmot gives a polished performance as the slick, devious lawyer Billy Flynn, who uses the ol' razzle dazzle to wow the gullible media and promote his clients' cause, while a mention must be made for loveable loser Amos Hart, played by Adam Stafford.
Musical director Garth Hall adds to the show's charm, chipping in with some comedic moments, while 'back to the day job', he leads the wonderfully talented orchestra through such show-stopping numbers as All That Jazz, Cell Block Tango and We Both Reached For The Gun.
If you have been unable to get down to London to watch this show, then make sure you catch Chicago while it stops in Wycombe – it's sharp, sexy, funny and packed full of great songs and top choreography.
The ol razzle-dazzle still shines bright.
Chicago runs until Saturday at The Wycombe Swan, contact 01494 512000.
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