Northview’s Chicago is a mesmerizing musical of sight, light, and sound that whisks its audiences back to the 1920’s to watch a tragedy of “murder, greed, corruption, violence, exploitation, adultery and treachery” that leaves its audience begging for more.
Chicago’s story is brought to life by its star-studded cast. Senior Mia DelVerne captures Roxies stubborn determination and street smarts as the musical chronicles her rise to fame, Junior Gracie Lukasic perfectly portrays Velma as a jealous criminal who navigates the female prisons of Chicago, and Senior Tressel Holton excellently encapsulates greedy defense lawyer and puppetmaster Billy Flynn. However, the musical wouldn’t be anything without its talented back-up cast of vocalists who make the musical feel alive.
The music of Chicago is wonderful. Played by a live jazz band on stage, the music helps emulate the popular styles of 1920’s speakeasies. The choreography goes even further to mimic the golden age of luxury, having characters do dances like the Charleston that are choreographed meticulously. As a musical though, its heart and soul come in its songs. Whether it be upbeat songs such as “All I Care About” or “We Both Reached for the Gun,” or emotionally charged numbers like “Funny Honey,” “Mr.Cellophane,” or “I Know a Girl,” the vocalists don’t disappoint.
But, a cast and good music is nothing without its crew. Luckily, Chicago delivers on that too. The stage set is decorated with a well lit sign, a gorgeous city-skyline backdrop, and a color palette that makes you feel at home in the era. The lights swiftly follow the characters and provide a showman-like silhouette that trails the actors as they dance gracefully, and the costumes balance dancing functionality with stunning beauty. The boys wear suits and suspenders while the girls wear dresses and flapper style skirts of the time.
Overall, Chicago is a blast that caters to every kind of person out there. Its gripping plot is enhanced by stunning performances from all involved and its attention to detail for its time period shows how much blood, sweat, and tears these students poured into the show over their summer. Five stars.
