The global smash-hit Chicago the Musical opens in Auckland this week, bringing scandal, seduction, and showbiz to the Bruce Mason Centre before touring to Christchurch and Dunedin in August.
Described by The Times as “the sharpest, slickest show on the block,” Chicago will open its strictly limited Christchurch season at the Isaac Theatre Royal from 17 to 24 August, followed by two performances at Dunedin’s Regent Theatre on 29 and 30 August.
Directed by Michael Hurst ONZM, the bold new production stars Jackie Clarke as the commanding Mama Morton, Nomi Cohen as the ambitious Roxie Hart, and Lily Bourne as the fiery Velma Kelly. Joel Tobeck takes on the role of slick lawyer Billy Flynn, with Andy Grainger as Amos Hart and Hannah Tasker-Poland as Liz.
Audiences can expect the iconic numbers All That Jazz, Cell Block Tango, and Razzle Dazzle, brought to life with choreography by Shona McCullagh MNZM and sets by award-winning designer Chris Reddington.
Based on real events, Chicago is a dark satire on celebrity, fame, and justice set in the roaring 1920s. It tells the story of Roxie Hart, a chorus girl who kills her lover and fights for fame behind bars with the help of a cunning lawyer and a rival-turned-ally.
With six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards, a Grammy, and six Oscars, Chicago is the longest-running musical revival in Broadway history and continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
The Christchurch performances will feature live music from the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, while the Dunedin shows will be backed by the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra.
Tickets are available now via Ticketek for Christchurch and the Regent Box Office for Dunedin.
