Crime, fame, song, dance, razzle-dazzle and all that jazz: The Black Wing Theatre Company is presenting its rendition of the ever-popular Chicago at Royal Bay Secondary School's Teechamitsa Theatre this May.
Chicago debuted on Broadway 50 years ago this June. But it’s a story that dates back even further – to a 1926 play written by Maurine Dallas Watkins, who based the work on her coverage of the real-life murder trials of Beulah Annan and Belva Gaertner for the Chicago Tribune.
The show follows Roxie Hart, who, in her search for fame and glory, slays the man with whom she’s been having an affair. To avoid conviction and plead her innocence, she weaves a sensational story through the media alongside her criminal lawyer, Billy Flynn.
“It’s the 50th anniversary of Chicago, and I would just say that it is timelier than ever. It is just as relevant as it was when it opened in the ’70s,” said the show’s director and choreographer, Melissa Young. “Which I think is the cool thing about theatre – how these messages and themes we write about are still relevant so many years later. It’s cool that we are doing this 50 years later.”
The political satire’s exploration of corruption in the criminal justice system and the concept of a “celebrity criminal” are certainly themes present in today’s cultural zeitgeist.
With opening night just around the corner, anticipation is beginning to build among the cast.
“I feel really excited. As we get closer to this time, we’re adding all the elements that go into the show. It’s beautiful to see it all coming together after months of hard work,” said Isabella Gorman, a Grade 10 student taking on the role of Roxie Hart.
Gorman says this year’s show is an opportunity for her to continue honing her skills and build on what she began in musical theatre last year. Her favourite part of the production has been learning about Chicago’s “hidden message.”
“It’s about the way the world works and the truth behind it – and I think it shows that really well.”
Gorman’s co-stars, Shy Hamilton and Will Jackson – Grade 11 and 12 students portraying Velma Kelly and Billy Flynn respectively – are looking forward to taking on bigger roles than they have in the past.
“This is the biggest role I’ve ever had in a show, so it’s very exciting. I’m excited to see it all come together and get to have the moments that I’ve seen other people experience in my years of theatre,” said Hamilton.
“This show is very special to me because I’ve always loved it, and I’ve loved the era and the vibes. The community is so great, so it really means a lot to me, and I think it’s going to be a peak of my high school experience.”
Meanwhile, her co-star Jackson is looking forward to returning to the stage after an eight-year hiatus.
“It’s kind of jumping into the deep end in a lot of ways for me, as this is my first lead role in any production, but seeing it all come together has truly been an experience I won’t forget.”
The large ensemble dance numbers – including their rendition of We Both Reached for the Gun – are among the production’s highlights for the cast.
“That’s Billy’s master plan coming together,” said Jackson.
“He’s the system. He controls what’s happening and why this case is going this way. So, for me, being able to play that role is a big highlight.”
Beyond learning about the show’s themes and honing their performance skills, the cast says an appreciation for hard work will stay with them even after they’ve left the Black Wing Theatre Company.
“I’ve learned a real work ethic, especially with this show,” said Gorman.
“The full ensemble coming together is really powerful, and I think it shows that if people all come together and work for one goal, it can become something so amazing.”
Chicago will premiere at Royal Bay Secondary School on May 7 at 7 p.m., with additional evening shows on May 8 and 9, and a matinee at 2 p.m. on May 10.
Tickets are $17 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for students. They can be purchased at Royal Bay Secondary School or online at ticketowl.io/blackwingtheatre.
