In Albany, N.Y., Park Playhouse Theater has started its 28th season with the hit musical "Chicago," which tells the story of murderesses Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly as they try to do what they can to make sure that their names will be up in lights for everyone to see. During this, they do what they can to look good through the eyes of the media so they can get away with murder.
I'm going to be very blunt and say that I've never been a big fan of the musical "Chicago." It's weak on story and we're apparently supposed to be rooting for the bad guys the whole time. That can be all well and good, but you have to give some sympathy to these criminals if we're going to level with them. Roxie Hart is an adulterer and kills the man that she's having an affair with, while Velma Kelly kills her husband and sister. Despite this, they continue to struggle to keep or gain whatever fame that they can muster. There's absolutely no way that we can sympathize with them. Their only goal satisfies nothing but their selfishness.
Even though I don't like the story, the way it is told is phenomenal. The style is very much along the lines of a cabaret, with a hostess telling us who's performing next and what their motivation is. Speaking of which, the songs are some of the best I've heard out of any musical. I can sit down and listen to the "Chicago" soundtrack and I will be very satisfied. How much do I like it? "The Cell Block Tango" is one of my favorite show tunes of any musical that I've seen. Park Playhouse made me appreciate the show a whole lot more with how they went about it.
To me, the musicals that Park Playhouse puts on are the best versions of that musical that I've ever seen. Last year, their rendition of "Singin' in the Rain" was so phenomenal that I think even Broadway was eating its heart out, and "Chicago" is no exception. The show looks phenomenal. From costumes, to lighting, to choreography, it was a beautiful-looking show. And that's what I can say about every show that Park Playhouse has done before. Even if you don't like their shows, you can't deny that they are all amazing to just look at. Because so much effort and detail went into the technical portion of the show, the actors were able to bring more energy and charisma to their respective roles.
So in the end, I highly recommend seeing "Chicago." If you live in the Albany area, be sure not to miss out on an incredible experience. If you don't live in the Albany area, think about taking a road trip to Washington Park one night. I guarantee you won't regret it.
Chicago runs Tuesday through Saturday until July 30.
