A Killer Night Out - Chicago the Musical at Wales Millennium Centre
Chicago is a dazzling, satirical look at fame, corruption, and showbiz in 1920s America. The story follows Roxie Hart, a wannabe starlet who finds herself behind bars after murdering her lover. In prison, she meets Velma Kelly, a seasoned performer with a knack for manipulating the press. As the two vie for public attention and the aid of smooth-talking lawyer Billy Flynn, they spin tales of innocence and scandal, proving that in Chicago, notoriety is just another path to the spotlight.
If you’re looking for a show that oozes glamour, grit, and all that jazz, Chicago the Musical at the Wales Millennium Centre is the place to be. This latest production, starring Jeanette Manrara as Roxie Hart, Djalenga Scott as Velma Kelly, and Loose Women’s Brenda Edwards as Matron ‘Mama’ Morton, is a masterclass in razzle-dazzle entertainment.
“It’s got the sass, the style, and the scandal to keep you hooked from start to finish”
From the moment the curtain rose, the audience was transported straight into the smoky, scandalous world of 1920s Chicago. The ensemble cast was the heartbeat of the show, delivering breathy, sultry vocals and moving with the unmistakable precision of Bob Fosse’s choreography. Every step, every flick of the wrist, every slow, deliberate movement was executed with finesse, making the dance sequences utterly hypnotic.
But let’s talk about Brenda Edwards—because wow, did she steal the show! Her rendition of “When You’re Good to Mama” was dripping with cool jazz tones, her voice rich and commanding, effortlessly filling the theatre. It was, without a doubt, one of the best performances of the number in recent memory.
The band, taking centre stage in more ways than one, was a character in itself. Positioned prominently, they transformed the theatre into a roaring 1920s jazz club, setting the mood with every brassy note and sultry saxophone riff. It was immersive, it was electric, and it was, as they say, The Cat’s Meow.
The minimal staging and costume changes worked in the production’s favour, ensuring that the vocals and choreography remained front and centre. This stripped-back approach meant that those who truly excelled—whether in voice, movement, or sheer stage presence—shone even brighter.
This production of Chicago is a must-see for musical theatre lovers. It’s got the sass, the style, and the scandal to keep you hooked from start to finish. So, if you fancy a night of crime, corruption, and killer performances, grab a ticket while you can!
Chicago is on until May 10th, so grab your tickets and your partners in crime and head on over to The Wales Millennium Centre Website and get your tickets now 💃🏼💃🏼💃🏼💃🏼
