Chicago

Chicago feels like one of those productions that the West End can’t seem to shift. The Garrick Theatre is the third West End home to host the Kander and Ebb delight since it originally opened at the Cambridge Theatre in 1979. The current production is based on the 1996 Encores! revival directed by Walter Bobbie with choreography by Anna Reinking. Since opening at the Adelphi Theatre in 1997, the show transferred to the Cambridge Theatre in 2006 and has now settled at the smaller Garrick Theatre. 

The show is set in Chicago during the roaring 1920’s and follows aspiring nightclub singer Roxy Hart who murders her lover and finds herself on Death Row alongside ‘six merry murderers’ who each have their own reason for jumping into the limelight. There she meets performer Velma Kelly and the two battle to win the attention of the press and the affections of lawyer Billy Flynn who fights for each girl’s freedom. With the help of Matron ‘Mamma’ Morton, the girls learn the first rule of show business – if you can’t be famous, be infamous.

Interest in the musical was certainly aided by the Oscar winning film of the show which has brought in new theatregoers who are now familiar with the jazzy score, featuring numbers such as ‘All that Jazz’ and ‘Cell Block Tango’. Many are surprised to see the production stripped down, presented in Bob Fosse’s original style where the live band are the prominent feature of the set. The musical is presented as a vaudeville style show with each musical number announced to the audience by an emcee. The rich score complements this convention, using a mix of intimate numbers and ‘razzle dazzle’ showstoppers, highlighting a scantily clad ensemble who bring Fosse’s steps to life.

Part of the show’s success on both sides of the Atlantic is thanks to its ability to embrace international celebrities in each of the iconic roles. Jerry Springer, Christine Brinkley, Denise van Outen and David Hasselhoff are all names that have starred in the show at some point in time, and producers have not missed a trick for the Garrick Theatre opening. America Ferrara, star of Channel 4’s ‘Ugly Betty’ starred as Roxy Hart, alongside Darius Campbell (Darius Danesh?…Popstars the Rivals? Hit-me-baby-one-more-time? Yes, that’s the one) as smooth talking lawyer Billy Flynn. The pair couldn't have been more different on stage – Ferrara struggled to find stage presence, speaking through many of her songs rather than giving any distinct vocal tone. Darius looms over the stage commanding respect from the outset, delivering each vocal number with style and confidence. Both however seemed wrong for the show. The slick ensemble inhabit the style of the show perfectly, and these two 'celebrities' have clearly been teleported in to boost ticket sales. Neither show an understanding of the form, and despite Darius's previous West End achievements (which include the sadly short lived 'Gone With the Wind') this does not seem like a show for him.

The Garrick is a difficult venue for a musical, as pillars restrict many seats in the stalls, that even affect a simply staged show such as 'Chicago'. The rumble of the underground underneath at regular intervals denies any real escapism, making it harder for those onstage to engage with the wafts of tourists drawn to the show based on longevity alone. Many in the audience also forget that unlike the film version which can be watched in the privacy of your own home, there is no sing a long option to this piece of live theatre. The show itself is still fun and engaging, but in these new surroundings seems claustrophobic and in need of a lick of paint.

Where I sat: Stalls T5. Rear section of the stalls, very under the circle and restricted by a number of pillars. I would avoid sitting here, it is worth the money to sit further forward in between the restrictions. Ask about restrictions at time of booking!

Recommended: If you haven't seen the show before you will enjoy it, but those looking for a fantastic repeat performance will be disappointed.