Review: Chicago the Musical at Futures Theatre

Adelaide Youth Theatre has kicked off 2025 with an exhilarating rendition of the iconic Chicago, reminding us why this classic musical endures as a theatrical masterpiece. By assembling an exceptional cast and presenting a sleek, contemporary reimagining, AYT and its team deliver a performance brimming with sharpness and brilliance, matching the energy of any professional production.

The set design, echoing the recent professional tour in Adelaide, blends Art Deco luxury with minimalist modernity, capturing the heart of Chicago’s Jazz Age while ensuring its relevance for today’s viewers. Bold lighting and lively choreography energize the production, blending nostalgia with a fresh, exciting perspective.

The cast’s performances, both lead and ensemble, are extraordinary.

Ayeisha Everett shines as Matron Mama Morton, the forceful yet empathetic figure who influences the fates of the female prisoners. Her powerful rendition of “When You’re Good to Mama” is a highlight, showcasing her commanding vocal ability.

Riley Mobbs portrays Amos Hart, Roxie’s beleaguered but loving husband, offering a tender contrast to the otherwise flashy and cutthroat world of Chicago. His rendition of “Mr. Cellophane” reveals deep vulnerability, with his heartfelt performance capturing the essence of Amos’ quiet despair.

Henry Tran brings charisma to the role of Billy Flynn, captivating the audience with his charm, especially in “Both Reached For The Gun,” where he effortlessly channels the superficial lawyer driven by courtroom drama.

Annabel Wark as Roxie Hart is exceptional, balancing vulnerability, humor, and determination. Her performances of “Roxie” and “Funny Honey” are especially memorable, displaying an infectious combination of sass and depth.

Alessia Charman as Velma Kelly delivers a fiery and polished performance. Her vocal prowess and impeccable timing make her portrayal of the sultry star a standout, with riffs that rival those of the professionals.

The chemistry between the leading ladies, Wark and Charman, creates a thrilling dynamic, with their harmonies adding to the sharp wit and critical commentary that define the show.

For me, the standout performance came from H. Ince as Mary Sunshine. Ince masterfully captured the essence of the character, from the nuances and style to the vocal flair, delivering a truly brilliant performance.

The musical numbers, under the guidance of Musical Director Mark Stefanoff and accompanied by a talented band, are executed with precision and flair, from the show-stopping “All That Jazz” to the sultry “Razzle Dazzle.”

The choreography, crafted by Nic Collins, is a triumph. Mixing classic jazz styles with contemporary movements, the dance sequences are electrifying, polished, and mesmerizing. The ensemble, especially the male dancers led by Jordan Tyler and Hamish Skene, exhibit remarkable skill, while the female cast nails the fierce energy of ‘Cell Block Tango.’

Clear direction and smooth transitions, overseen by Benji Riggs, help propel the production forward, ensuring Chicago remains a high-energy experience from start to finish.

Considering this is a youth performance, where not every detail is flawless, the show still excels in delivering sharp wit, extraordinary performances, and a visually stunning experience.

Another remarkable achievement for AYT!

4 stars

Lia Loves.