Joburg audiences who haven’t already high-kicked their way to the box office should be encouraged by the response of critics and audiences alike to CHICAGO’s Artscape run. Respected news website 2 Oceans Vibe stated, “From the cast to the choreography, the band and the lighting, the word that kept surfacing in my mind was ‘flawless’.” Mapmyway.co.za said, “A star-studded cast, brilliant band, incredible direction and superb choreography all add up to a brilliant production of this slick and sexy musical.” Well-known actor Ashley Dowds was blown away, noting that “… sexy came to town … in the most spectacular production of CHICAGO you may ever see. Everyone – everyone on stage is uncommonly … disturbingly good!” And Instagram user Marrinele agreed: “It was fantastic! Every single performer gave it their all. The entire cast was so harmonious and in sync on stage!”

So the answer to the musical question “The name on everybody’s lips is going to be?” is definitely CHICAGO! Leading local producer and promoter Showtime Management has put together a brilliant cast, featuring principal performers Kiruna-Lind Devar (Evita, MAMMA MIA!, Phantom of the Opera World Tour) as chorus girl turned murderess Roxie Hart; Samantha Peo (The Adams Family, Strictly Come Dancing, CHICAGO world Tour 2018 & 2019) reprising the iconic role of Velma Kelly, the famous Vaudeville performer and fellow murderess; and Tankiso Mamabolo (Nwabisa Plaatjie’s ‘Ziyana’, Don’t Believe a Word I Say) as the tough but savvy Matron Mama Morton. The role of the slick, charismatic yet devious lawyer Billy Flynn is reprised by Jonathan Roxmouth (Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Grease), who played this character in the New Zealand leg during the 2018/2019 CHICAGO World Tour. The role of Roxie’s simple, loving husband, Amos Hart, is played by Dean de Klerk (Kinky Boots, Rent, The Sound of Music), and M.E. Marvey is the upbeat reporter, Mary Sunshine.

These alluring leads are supported by returning ensemble members from CHICAGO’s 2018/2019 season – Lesego van Niekerk, Jenna Robinson Child, Alexandra Girard, Ferdinand W Gernandt, Michael Fullard, Dirk Joubert and Hugo Madeleyn – as well as spicy newcomers Angelica Hattingh, Ashley Scott, Bronwyn Craddock, Leah Mari, Nicolette Fernandes, Nicholas Lai, André Maarman, Jonathan Raath, Kent Jeycocke and Nkosinathi Mazwai.

“It’s been wonderful to see how Cape Town has responded to this new production of CHICAGO. Fans who have loved this show for years and new audiences coming in for the first time are being dazzled by our incredible world-class performers and their talent, as well as by this enduring, sultry story of fame, ambition, corruption and murder. Come and join us, Johannesburg!” says Hazel Feldman of Showtime Management.

CHICAGO is one of those shows that fully embodies all that makes Broadway and the West End great. It’s a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz; one foot-tapping song after another, including “Razzle Dazzle”; plus, the sexiest, most sensational dancing and a sophisticated set that incorporates the live orchestra. This devilishly delicious show has brought cheering audiences to their feet all around the world. From Australia to Argentina and Spain to South Africa, more than 34 million people have seen CHICAGO, which has run for over 35,000 performances worldwide across 38 countries in more than 525 cities!

Sing along and dance to catchy jazz-infused songs like “All That Jazz”, “Cell Block Tango” and “Razzle Dazzle”, with arrangements and lyrics designed to build the story’s energy and sharp satire. CHICAGO is a bold commentary on the pursuit of celebrity and the extreme lengths people will go to for attention and success, no matter the cost – themes that are always trending!

Winner of six Tonys, two Oliviers, one Grammy, two Baftas and six Academy Awards, CHICAGO continues to be one of the most successful international musical hits of all time. Its international appeal stems from its enticing tale of murder, greed, corruption, violence, exploitation, adultery and treachery – facets the entire world finds fascinating. This great musical is simply Broadway at its best. Cape Town audiences, get there while you can – CHICAGO is the hottest show in town and tickets are flying! If you’re in Johannesburg, get your tickets before they are sold out. Book now at ticketmaster.co.za.

Owing to strong adult themes and profanity, this production has a PG rating 10+. Parental guidance is advised. Terrific Tuesday discounts available. Ts and Cs apply. A 20% block booking discount is offered on groups of 20 or more on selected shows for specific price categories. Contact sales@showtime.co.za.

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