Chicago

CLOC has created an extraordinarily exuberant and vivacious production of Chicago that captures the sizzling nature of the era and story that the show depicts. The very strong cast is led by Emily McKenzie as Roxie Hart, Melanie Ott as Velma Kelly and Will Hanley as Billy Flynn. The power of their vocal performances enhances the emotional impact of the characters (and their bizarre circumstances) and generates a wondrous atmosphere of fun and impish playfulness.

The costume design by Victoria Horne is of particular note. The cohesion in colour and style and the propensity for glitter and glamour is accurately and beautifully captured. The intricate detail in the fabrics and the design of the costumes brings this musical to life in all its dimensions. The choreography is equally impressive with many scenes which are clearly paying homage to Busby Berkeley Hollywood musicals. This helps to give the show a strong sense of grandeur and adds to the overall amazing polish of the show.

Emcees Yann Tixhon and Thomas O’Reilly set a perfect tone of fun and flippancy and highlight CLOCs ability to showcase and celebrate queer performances. CLOC embraces diversity with ease, passion and daring. Thomas Kitt-Thompson as Amos Hart captures both the pitiful and comic sides of this role and gives an especially poignant solo performance of “Mister Cellophane”.

CLOC’s Chicago is a visually stunning show with confident and commanding performances that unequivocally impress, enthuse, and transport the audience.

Patricia Di Risio 

Photographer: Ben Fon

https://www.cloc.org.au/