This fall, the RMHS Drama Club has worked hard to prepare for its production of Chicago. This well-known American classic holds the record for the longest-running musical revival, and the longest-running American musical on Broadway. The play takes place in 1920’s Chicago, and tells the story of two murderesses, Velma Kelly, played by Tessa Goldlust, and Roxie Hart, played by Renee Haley. The two women are being held in Cook County jail. Velma, helped by Matron “Mamma” Morton, played by Katie Delaney, and lawyer Billy Flynn, played by Owen Lannon, has become the top murderer-of-the-week in the media. Velma, preparing for her trial and return to Vaudeville, is not happy about the arrival of Roxie, who begins to take her lawyer and media attention. Roxie soon surpasses Velma as the most popular “celebrity” in Chicago, until another murderess arrives to take the limelight. However, Roxie and Velma both have some ideas to bring the attention back to them, and Roxie even fakes a pregnancy to get her trial date moved up and attention back onto her. The play ends after Roxie and Velma, both out of jail, team up to become a duo act and sing “Hot Honey Rag.”
Following the birth of Mrs. Cunha’s baby girl, Dorothy, Mr. Enslow directed RMHS’ version of this play. As always Mr. Enslow did a fantastic job directing an energetic and interesting show. I enjoyed the entire company’s acting, and the show was perfectly casted. Mr. Enslow was not the only familiar face contributing to the show. Many were happy to see the return of Ms. Killian as music director for Chicago, and as usual, she did not disappoint. The audience was blown away by the cast’s beautiful vocals, and nearly everyone appeared surprised by the strength and vigor of the soloists voices. I was especially impressed with Tessa, Renee, and Owen’s voices, as their solos included many challenging songs with large ranges. Anthony Dispena, who played Roxie’s husband Amos, and Katie Delaney also had some beautiful vocal performances. The singers were accompanied by a live pit orchestra composed of wind, brass, and percussion instruments, including Ms. Wentlant on the keyboard and Ms. Killian on the piano.
The musical numbers were complete with choreography by Ms. Katie Donovan, which helped liven up the show and make it come alive. The ensemble became beautiful backup dancers and characters of their own through this choreography. The audience was transported back to the roaring ‘20s with the beautiful combination of acting, voices, setpieces, costumes, music, and choreography.
The RMHS Drama Club’s fall season was wrapped up with success, and the club is looking forwards to this winter’s production of A View From the Bridge on March 6th, 7th, and 8th.
Photo by Cristine Parks
