On Tuesday February 3rd, the National tour of "Chicago" strutted and slinked its way onto the stage of The Buell Theater in Denver. I am happy to report that this touring company is steller!
With a cast headed by Michelle DeJean (Roxy), Terra C. MacLeod (Velma), Tom Wopat (Billy), Roz Ryan (Matron "Mama" Morton) and Ben Elledge (Amos), this cast took the theater by storm. At a mile high on opening night, their timing was perfect and the cast didn't miss a step nor were they ever out of synch!
From the moment she took the stage as Roxy Hart, Ms. DeJean lit dazzled the audience throughout the evening. Right on her heels was the fantastic Ms. MacLeod, as Velma Kelly, leaving me breathless after effortlessly high-kicking her way through "I Can't Do It Alone".
Roz Ryan, with her smoky voice, played with the audience and had them eating out of the palm of her hand by the end of "When You're Good To Mama". She almost didn't need to speak as her body language said it all! Mr. Elledge's Amos Hart was played with a subtlety and innocence that ultimately brought the house down with "Mr. Cellophane". He was just amazing to watch during the number.
Tom Wopat as Billy Flynn turns in a very cool and suave performance. For those of you who have never heard him sing live, you are in for a treat! He had the lady that attended the performance with me swooning! Mr. Wopat is leaving the tour after the Denver run to join the Broadway cast. So grab a ticket to see him before the show leaves!
And then there is the talented and sexy supporting cast. Vocally in great shape and delivering the iconic Fosse choreography with precision. Through the years I have always felt that since Fosse himself is not here to choreograph the revivals that have been done of his shows, the signature moves seem to be a bit diluted. But they are there. Kudos to
Gary Chryst for his re-creation of the original production's choreography (Which was choreographed by
Ann Reinking). The only things missing were the cartwheels and splits at the end of "Hot Honey Rag", which was performed with great energy and precision by Ms. DeJean and Ms MacLeod.
For those of you only familiar with the movie, you are in for a treat. Some songs were not included in the movie but you will get to enjoy them in the stage production. Two standouts are "A Little Bit of Good" sung beautifully by D. Micciche as Mary Sunshine and "Class" (Which was cut from the movie but included in the DVD's special features).
The cast didn't seem to even break a sweat. But you will because the show is that hot!
"Chicago" will only be in Denver until February 8th before it moves on to The Ford Center in Chicago. So slick your hair, wear your buckle shoes and get to the Buell!
