Review: CHICAGO at D Cube Art Center, '5, 6, 7, 8 !' Welcome back to Korea

"5,6,7,8." With these 4 numbers shouted by the composer, the overture of Chicago was played as dancers filled the stage. On May 22, Chicago's Korean Production had the first show of its 14th season. This season is meaningful in that it's the 1000th performance in Korea. With original cast members such as Choi Jeongwon and Ivy and new members such as Kim Jiwoo, the show once again managed to show the audiences why Chicago is one of Broadway's longest-running shows and why Chicago is a must-see piece of work.

"Welcome. Ladies and gentleman, you are about to see a story of murder, greed, corruption, violence, exploitation, adultery and treachery- all those things we all hold near and dear to our hearts." This is the first line of Chicago. As you can see, it is a piece of work with various themes. Chicago is a story about two women, Roxy and Velma who strive to receive not guilty on a jury while committing murder and also gain fame and glory due to it.

CHICAGO has a long history of over 20 years on Broadway, which clearly shows how much it is beloved by many people. However, not only on Broadway, in Korea, Chicago is one of the most popular shows. Having its first show in 2000, the Korean production of Chicago celebrated its 1000th performance on the 23rd. For this year's performance, veteran actors of the show such as Choi Jeongwon and Nam Gyeongjoo and relatively new actors such as Kim Jiwoo and Ahn Jaewook joined together to make another yet interesting run. Choi Jeongwon and Park Kolleen were cast for the role of Velma, Nam Gyeongjoo and Ahn Jaewook were cast for the role of Billy Flynn and last but not least, Kim Jiwoo and Ivy were cast for Roxy.

Chicago is unique in that not a lot of props or sets are used. In the middle of the stage, the orchestra takes place and most of the ensemble actors are seated on each side of the stage. Also, unlike most shows where the conductor's main role is to literally conduct, the conductor in Chicago interacts with actors throughout the show. Also, before the start of the second act, members of the orchestra stand up while playing which overall gives a feeling that everyone is a part of this show.

For the performance I saw, Park Kolleen played as Velma, Kim Jiwoo as Roxy, and Ahn Jaewook as Billy. Park Kolleen who is a well-known musical director as well as conductor, seemed to have fully understood the music. She was skillful in belting out high notes and was amazing at making Velma's charismatic characteristic stand out. Kim Jiwoo, who was playing Roxy for the first time was amazing at portraying Roxy's sly but somewhat attractive personality. The combination of Park Kolleen and Kim Jiwoo clearly depicted the relationship between the experienced Velma Kelly and the yet naïve Roxy Hart. Ahn Jaewook who played Billy Flynn was also very talented in both singing and acting. His portrayal of Billy clearly showed the character's hypocritical nature.

Chicago is a must-see show in Korea. It is a show with wonderful music, eye-catching dance moves, and an amazing cast. There is no other show like Chicago, where every actor, principle or not, every orchestra members, and every audience could enjoy. Don't miss the amazing opportunity to be a part of this unforgettable experience.

Chicago's Seoul performance is until August 5th in D Cube Art center. There is another performance in Cheongcheong Do for two days, August 18th, and the 19th. Tickets start at 60,000 and can be purchased at the ticket box and online at www.interparkglobal.com. Be sure to check the cast prior to buying the tickets.

For more information, please visit www.interparkglobal.com

Photo Credit: Seensee official twitter