2008 Woodie Awards
Cap and Bells "Razzle - Dazzles" with "Chicago"
John Errigo '09
Issue date: 4/16/08 Section: Entertainment
|
Good theater takes you away from life, from any current problems, worries or any specific situational contexts. Good theater gives you goose bumps during the first few notes of the night. Good theater gives you an extraordinary chance to escape from the daily grind. Saint Joseph's University Cap and Bell's production of Chicago proved to be all of these things and more. It literally blows your mind. I have seen the movie, yet I have seen nothing like this production. Everything from the orchestration, choreography, cast, set design, production standards and costume design is breathtaking and nothing short of spectacular.
Based on the roaring twenties play Chicago by Maurine Dallas Watkins, the musical features many well-loved songs, including "All That Jazz" and "Razzle Dazzle." John Kander wrote the music, the late Fred Ebb wrote the lyrics, and Ebb collaborated with legendary Broadway choreographer and director Bob Fosse to write the book.
"We chose Chicago because of its incredible musical score, and its satiric take on the criminal justice system," said director Renee Dobson, M.F.A., associate professor of fine and performing arts and co-director of Cap and Bells Dramatic Arts Society, the university's theater production program.
It was a good choice since, from the minute the actors took their place on stage during the beginning score to the last musical note, it was nothing but an engaging musical journey.
Cassie Nentwig, '08, plays the poker faced Velma Kelly. Her acting is Broadway caliber at its finest. Bonnie McBride, '09, gives an outstanding performance of Roxie Hart that leaves you wondering if she has been performing the show most of her life. Her natural and outrageous ability to transform into a large than life figure is nothing short of spectacular.
Be the first to comment on this story