The razzle-dazzle returns as Chicago The Musical takes centre stage at Artscape from Wednesday 27 August to Sunday 28 September, boasting an all-South African cast and crew.
The 50-strong local company includes a 23-member cast, 11-piece live band, and top-tier creative team.
Produced by Showtime Management with Broadway heavyweights Barry and Fran Weissler, the production features international direction by Tania Nardini and choreography by Gary Chryst, re-creating the original New York staging.
Musical director Kevin Kraak leads the band, with Alistair Kilbee and Peter Taylor managing technical and company logistics.
Packed with iconic numbers like “All That Jazz” and “Cell Block Tango”, Chicago blends sultry jazz with biting satire in a tale of crime, corruption and the cult of celebrity.
Broadway history
Chicago was first created by the legendary Broadway trio of John Kander (music), Fred Ebb (book/lyrics) and Bob Fosse (co-author, original director and choreographer) in 1975, and was based on a 1926 Broadway play written by Maurine Dallas Watkins, a journalist from the Chicago Tribune who had covered the sensational trials of two women, both of whom were accused of killing their lovers whilst under the influence of drink and jazz.
In November 1996 a revival of Chicago opened on Broadway produced by Barry and Fran Weissler.
A year later they opened the show in London’s West End. Chicago is currently playing its 28th year in New York where it holds the record as the longest-running musical revival and the second longest-running musical in Broadway history.
With six Tony Awards, two Oliviers, and six Oscars under its belt, this global smash hit is not to be missed.
It carries a PG 10+ rating due to mature themes. Terrific Tuesday and group booking discounts are available.
*Book tickets at www.ticketmaster.co.za.
Two winners will win double tickets to see Chicago at Artscape on Wednesday 3 September at 19:30.
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