by Abel Horwitz
Daily Lobo
Slinking its way into Popejoy this weekend, the musical "Chicago" packs a punch that's been delighting audiences worldwide.
"We just did a five-week tour in Japan," said David Bushman, part of the ensemble of actors who take the stage throughout the performance. "They love the American musical and the producers were very happy to have the show back."
The 2002 film adaptation won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
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"A lot of people have seen the movie and really enjoyed it," Bushman said. "It was a good movie, and I think the makers of the film respected the style of the show."
He said the stage production is more complete than the film version.
"There are some musical numbers in the show that are not in the movie, which I think completes the show," he said. "Anyone who has seen the film and not the show will definitely appreciate that."
"Chicago," which was created by the legendary Broadway writer, director and choreographer Bob Fosse, tells the story of aspiring singer Roxy Hart in '20s Chicago, who, after murdering her lover, goes to jail. There, she sees the manipulative side of the law, of public opinion and what it takes to make it to the top of a career in show business.
"I think 'Chicago' is one of the most entertaining shows out there," said Mia Price, who plays one of the Six Merry Murderesses in jail with Roxy. "There's something for everyone. The show has amazing singers, sexy dancers and the story and the songs are very clever. The show packs a ton of laughs and is fast-paced and perfect for audiences who are used to movies and television."
Price respects the film version as well.
"I think it's wonderful when movie stars can show singing and dancing," she said. "But the performers in our shows have honed these skills for a lifetime. There's nothing like live performance."
While "Chicago" contains fun musical numbers and an intriguing story line, it also portrays women as manipulative and conniving.
"It's all done with a wink," Price said. "From a performer's standpoint this is an incredible show for women. It shows this journey of a woman who goes from being nothing to finding empowerment. It tells the story of this country's obsession with celebrity."
Bushman compared the show to the O.J. Simpson trial.
"It's a story about the manipulation of the media and the whole idea behind razzle dazzle," he said. "If you get the right lawyer, under the right circumstances, you can make people believe everything. Was he guilty? Not guilty? It doesn't matter because he got off by using smoke and mirrors. That's what we're trying to show."
"Chicago," which has been successfully performed on Broadway and on tours around the world since 1996, has earned numerous critical and audience praises. "Ask anyone who comes and 99 percent of the time the audience will have completely enjoyed the experience," Bushman said. "It's an opportunity not to be missed."
Price said audience members will often mouth the words to the songs along with performers.
"A lot of times you'll see this in a Rodgers and Hammerstein show. But 'Chicago' is still new and edgy and people already enjoy it like a classic," Price said.
