Expert Review: Why Chicago Is A Timeless Classic

4.4
★★★★☆

Expert Rating

The Verdict

Chicago remains one of musical theatre's most enduring and sophisticated productions. This cynical tale of murder, greed, and corruption in 1920s Chicago continues to captivate audiences with its razor-sharp wit, iconic choreography, and timeless commentary on celebrity culture and media manipulation.

What Makes It Extraordinary

  • Bob Fosse Choreography: The signature style of angular movements, isolations, and sultry jazz choreography that defines the show's visual identity.
  • Cell Block Tango: One of musical theatre's most iconic numbers featuring the murderous women and their stories of justifiable homicide.
  • Kander & Ebb Score: Unforgettable songs including "All That Jazz," "Razzle Dazzle," and "Mr. Cellophane" that have become standards.
  • Satirical Edge: A biting commentary on fame, justice, and media circus that feels more relevant than ever in today's world.

Perfect For

Musical theatre enthusiasts, fans of jazz and dance, adults who appreciate sophisticated storytelling, and anyone interested in shows that tackle mature themes with style and substance. The mature content makes it ideal for ages 12+.

Everything You Need to Know

Murder, Greed, and All That Jazz

Set in prohibition-era Chicago, the musical follows Roxie Hart, a wannabe vaudevillian who murders her lover and finds herself on trial for her life. In Cook County Jail, she meets her cellmate Velma Kelly, a vaudevillian who killed her husband and sister after finding them in bed together. Both women compete for the attention of slick lawyer Billy Flynn, who has never lost a case and specializes in representing Chicago's most notorious criminals.

What to Expect

  • Sultry jazz choreography and seductive performances in the Bob Fosse style
  • A satirical look at celebrity, media manipulation, and the justice system
  • Iconic musical numbers that blend seamlessly with the storytelling
  • Costume design that captures the glamour and grit of 1920s Chicago
  • Themes that remain surprisingly relevant to contemporary culture

Iconic Songs You'll Love

  • "All That Jazz" - The sultry opening number that sets the tone for the entire show
  • "Cell Block Tango" - The famous murderesses' ensemble piece about their crimes
  • "When You're Good to Mama" - Mama Morton's advice on survival in the slammer
  • "Razzle Dazzle" - Billy Flynn's cynical philosophy on winning cases through showmanship
  • "Mr. Cellophane" - Amos Hart's heartbreaking song about being invisible
  • "I Can't Do It Alone" - Velma's desperate plea for partnership

Musical Fact: The score by John Kander and Fred Ebb perfectly captures the spirit of 1920s jazz while creating modern musical theatre classics that have been covered by countless artists.

UK Tour Information

Tour Schedule

  • Multiple Venues: Check ATG Tickets for current locations
  • Tour Dates: Ongoing throughout 2025
  • Performance Times: Vary by venue
  • Booking: Advanced booking recommended

Common Tour Venues

  • Regional Theatres: Major UK cities including Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh
  • London Runs: Occasional limited engagements in West End venues
  • Transport: Check individual venue websites for directions

What to Know

  • Mature themes including murder, adultery, and corruption
  • Strong language and adult content throughout
  • Requires no prior knowledge of the story to enjoy
  • Running time typically 2 hours 15 minutes including interval