Bob Fosse and Fred Ebb’s famous play “Chicago” is being performed at the Maverick Theater. The play is set in Chicago during the high-rolling, roaring 20’s and explores the ethical turmoil the country was going through at that time.
America’s Second City was a hub of vaudeville artists and jazz musicians in the 20’s and the desire for fame is a major component of this story. Action revolves around showgirls on the stage who’s exploration of Chicago have taken them down the dark alley of murder.
Roxie Hart (Jenny Swoosh) and Velma Kelly (Erica Bowers) are two young women performers who, in the midst of jealous outrage, murder their lovers. The show is a musical and Swoosh and Bowers energetically portray their characters in song. Jazzy numbers accompany their telling of jail life where they meet more interesting characters and plot their defenses.
The jail scenes are made more interesting by the costumes. Throughout the play the female characters are dressed in a variety of sequined underwear. The white and floral beaded garments worn during the feather dance were particularly interesting and ornate.
During the trial we meet archetypal characters of crime and punishment, the sleazy lawyer and a particularly theatrical “bleeding heart” reporter Mary Sunshine (R.C. Sands). Sands portrayal of Sunshine is larger-than-life and over the top, in a good way.
There were a few sound problems during the showing that I saw, but just something they should have worked out by the next show.
Directed by Curtis Jerome and Brian Newell, “Chicago” will run until July 30th. Maverick Theater, 714.526.7070.
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