Chicago review: Actors display triple-threat abilities

Written by Curtis J. Phillips
Tuesday, 21 February 2012 09:54

Song, dance, murder and more were featured on the stage at Keyano Theatre's presentation of Chicago.

A very young cast challenged by a difficult play for main stage, Amanda Kelly in the role of sexy vaudevillian and murderess Velma Kelly and Jeff Hoffman as the charasmatic Chicago lawyer William “Billy” Flynn, stood out.

Last time we saw Hoffman was in the lead role of Chad in the jukebox musical All Shook Up which highlighted the legendary King of Rock N’ Roll, Elvis Presley.

Hoffman did not have the vocal chops of Elvis, (who does?), but was more than convincing with his own panache and style of delivery.

Such is the case in Chicago.

Hoffman’s stage presence and acting takes us back to the 1920s where the musical is set. Having seen the young man act a few times now, the belief is that he would make a smooth transition from stage to film.

He even delighted the crowd while singing and juggling three balls at the same time. That’s talent.

Few performers are triple threat in that they are the total package with outstanding singing, dancing and acting attributes.

Kelly, dressed snuggly in a burlesque costume, came close as she was comfortable in her stage presence and smooth singing voice.

Alexandra Price, as Roxie Hart the wannabe vaudevillian and murderess, is a graceful dancer and has excellent elocution.

In the role of Matron “Mama” Morton, the matron of the Cook County Jail for females, Jenny Price showcased her skills in the number When You’re Good to Mama.

The cast was also on cue for Cell Block Tango.

The performance faced a challenge during the end of the Roxie’s murder trial when an actor runs on stage to inform everyone that another sensational Chicago crime has being committed...everyone leaving the stage in hurried fashion for the next big thing. All we could hear were a few mumbled words.

I was surprised by the canned music instead of a live pit band as the previous two times the show has been staged locally there was live music. Why not now?

In this writer’s opinion the popular musical set in prohibition-era Chicago, was weighed down slightly by technical sound issues some of which at times drowned out the splendid vocal performances of the performers.

I have noticed a vast improvement in actor Adam Zacharias. His “Mr. Cellophane” number as Amos Hart, Roxie’s demur husband, was indeed a pleasure to watch.

Lanky and lean, Anthony Wall in the role of a court reporter Mary Sunshine added much-needed comic relief.

The costumes and set were first rate as was the lighting. The female cast were polished dancers.

Chicago continues with evening performances Feb. 22-25 and a 2 p.m. matinee Feb. 25.

To purchase tickets, visit the Keyano Box Office or call 780-791-4990.