The story of CHICAGO follows two notorious women—one, an established star desperate to stay in the limelight, and the other, a nobody with a chance to become even more famous than the former. Directed by Mr. Tyler Kitchenman, the show poses the question, “How far would you go to be famous?” For lead character Roxie Hart, the answer is murder.
“I love that she knows exactly what she wants. She wants to be a star, and she’s going to make it happen no matter what,” said Elena Ritter, QCHS student and actress portraying the ambitious Roxie Hart. “At one point, she’s putting on this act of being innocent, and by the end, she fully embraces who she really is. Finding that balance has been one of the hardest parts,” Ritter explained. While she admits stepping into the role of Roxie has been fun, Roxie’s morals are less than admirable. “In some ways it’s hard, but that’s what makes this experience so rewarding—to play someone so different from myself.”
The production itself is packed with demanding musical numbers, challenging all the performers to not only sing, but dance. Songs like “Hot Honey Rag” and “Roxie” tested Ritter’s choreography and vocal skills, including lifts and lots of high energy. “They’re both challenging, but I love performing them.” Audience members will be blown away by the choreography and light aerobatics performed by the cast, all thanks to the brilliance of choreographer Ms. Renee Fels.
The auditorium at Quakertown Community High School has been transformed into 1920s Chicago, thanks to the vision of Ms. Amy Migliore. Every costume and prop was meticulously selected to capture the aesthetic of the infamous show. From sharp black fashions and flapper-inspired styles to the occasional feathered accent, audience members will feel fully immersed in the world of the musical.
And who does Roxie need to dethrone to become the Queen of Chicago? The current reigning champion, the murderous Velma Kelly, played by Ava Mahaney. Minus the murderous rage, Mahaney connects to Kelly through their mutual love of the stage. A lifelong dancer, Mahaney was drawn to the role because both she and Kelly enjoy the “show” side of life. “I’ve been dancing for years and know what it’s like to want to entertain and be in the spotlight.” That connection shines through when Mahaney defines Kelly in her favorite musical numbers, “The Cell Block Tango” and “Velma Takes the Stand.” “She finally shows the audience who she really is. She’s being her true self in those numbers, and I love the dance.”
Mahaney emphasized that audiences will be blown away by the live band and energy on opening night: “It’s going to be incredible with the live band. The show is just so much fun.” And you’ll see some familiar faces in the pit orchestra! Conducted by QCHS's very own, Ms. Erin Camburn, the orchestra pit truly brings the show to the next level.
But what’s a murderer without their attorney? All the ladies in Chicago know who to call – Mr. Billy Flynn, played by QCHS Junior, Eddie Baniak. For Baniak, stepping into the role of slick defense attorney Billy Flynn was a chance to highlight the character’s intelligence and authority. “I love how he’s in charge. He’s the puppeteer, manipulating both the media and the narrative, always to his advantage…. and maybe his clients.” Baniak noted his favorite musical number, “We Both Reached for the Gun,” is not only challenging but truly shows who Billy is. “He’s smart and wants to be the one in control.”
But the person holding the keys to the kingdom isn’t Billy Flynn – it’s the countess of the clink – Mama Morton, played by Evie Moyer. “I love her ability to fake it,” said Moyer. And she’s right. With Mama, you never quite know if she’s your friend or foe, because she expertly plays both sides to her advantage. The only thing audiences can be sure of is that Mana is always on “Team Mama.” When asked if the show’s themes still connect today, Moyer did not hesitate: “The lengths people will go to be famous, and how the media competes for the story.”
CHICAGO promises to be an unforgettable performance, with incredible characters! Do not miss this high-energy masterpiece. Congratulations to QCHS Theater! Wishing all the actors and actresses an amazing opening night and run of the show. CHICAGO opens this Friday, May 8th at 7:30pm, and continues into the weekend with a show Saturday, May 9th at 7:30pm and Sunday, May 10th at 2:30pm.
*NOTE:
Online ticket sales have closed, but there are plenty of seats available. Please bring cash or check to the door to purchase tickets.
$15 for Adults
$10 for Students
