For one night only, “Chicago the Musical” came to Grand Forks. This performance of the classic musical production took place on the Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center’s stage on the night of Sunday, Mar. 30. “Chicago the Musical” was the final production to visit the community for the 2024-2025 Broadway in Grand Forks’ season. Other productions included “Shrek the Musical” and “Cirque Dreams Holidaze.” These productions are presented by Nederlander National Markets in partnership with the Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center.
“Chicago” is a satirical story that follows characters Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, both of whom cross paths with one another in jail after being convicted of murder. The show is set during the roaring twenties and is filled with jazz music as the stories unfold in the Cook County Jail. The two girls become rivals as they compete to be the headlines for the newspapers leading up to their trials in hopes that they will be found not guilty and can continue to pursue their careers in show business with their newfound fame from crime.
The show is currently Broadway’s longest running musical and has traveled all over the world. This popular musical is beloved by many, and each performance has its own unique qualities. This specific one is a traveling show, which means that after each stop, their set and all their equipment must get packed up and moved to the next location. Because of this, the set looks a bit different than it might on Broadway.
There was one major structure that the orchestra stayed on for the entire show, but that the actors used in their scenes as well. Along with this there were some unique lighting and prop design choices made to account for what might have been missing from the set, such as jail bars, feathers, and show lights.
In this production, the role of Roxie Hart was played by Ellie Roddy. Her co-star was Taylor Lane as Velma Kelly. Both girls perfectly portrayed these women and were each able to showcase their strong voices as well as incredible dancing skills alongside their castmates. Along with this, the character called Matron “Mama” Morton is one of the most beloved characters, and Illeana Kirven portrayed her as perfectly empathetic and self-serving while showcasing an incredibly strong lower range of vocals.
Some of the show’s most popular tunes include “All That Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango,” “We Both Reached for the Gun,” “Mister Cellophane,” and “Razzle Dazzle.” Each one was performed wonderfully and had the audience audibly reacting with cheers and laughter.
Overall, the Nederlander Presentation of “Chicago the Musical” was a captivating one night only experience for the community of Grand Forks and is a great reminder and showcase of the talent that can thrive in the world of performing arts. Having opportunities to experience Broadway level performances in a community like Grand Forks is wonderful, and with audiences’ support, it will continue to happen. If you missed this year’s Broadway in Grand Forks season, keep an eye out for the announcement of the lineup for next season’s performances.
Nora Lee is a Dakota Student General Reporter. She can be reached at nora.lee@und.edu.
