Review: Chicago Brings Razzle Dazzle to Sunderland Empire
It's a crime to miss Chicago whenever it's on tour, so of course we join the audience at Sunderland Empire
Taking a trip back to the 1920s, Chicago tells the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her lover after he threatens to walk out on her. To avoid conviction she dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma, by hiring Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer. Now a renowned musical featuring hit songs Razzle Dazzle, Cell Block Tango, and All That Jazz – with an early 2000s film adaptation starring Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Richard Gere – any stage revival of Chicago is a must-see.
This tour stars West End and TV star Darren Day who carries strong vocals and really captures the persona of Billy Flynn. He has been joined by Strictly Come Dancing pro Janette Manrara as Roxie Hart, but for this evening’s performance our Roxie is Lucy Anne Stacey who brings great comedic timing and strong vocals to the role. Her balance between acting and dance brings Roxie to life in the most fantastic way.
This isn’t our first time seeing this multi-award winning musical but the cast this time give it their all and play more into the comedic timing of the dances, which we love! This time Razzle Dazzle feels like more of a circus spectacular and the Cell Block Tango is a stand-out for us.
In act two, Joshua Lloyd’s performance of Mister Cellophane as Amos Hart is standing ovation-worthy. The band are a particular highlight of the night too – they’re on stage, and therefore immersed in the full performance, and the conductor has real showmanship.
