Chicago The Musical at The Lowry, Salford – a story of hot jazz and theatrical bliss

All That Jazz has found its way to Salford this week as Chicago the Musical hits The Lowry, and it’s safe to say the show still knows how to pull in a crowd.

Set in 1920s Chicago, the story centres on Roxie Hart, a chorus girl who shoots her lover and winds up behind bars. Inside Cook County Jail she meets Velma Kelly, a nightclub star with her own double-murder conviction.

Both women want the spotlight as much as they want their freedom, and with the slick lawyer Billy Flynn fighting their corner, it quickly turns into a tit-for-tat battle of who can play the media game best. 

The big talking point this time round is Janette Manrara, swapping the Strictly ballroom for the theatre stage in her debut as Roxie. She’s playful, cheeky and full of energy, and it’s clear she’s enjoying every second.

By her side, Djalenga Scott is a knockout Velma. From the moment she kicks things off with ‘All That Jazz’ she owns the stage, captivating the audience with every line.

Together, the pair bounce off each other brilliantly – their love-hate chemistry is one of the show’s strongest pulls.

Darren Day brings the charm as Billy Flynn, the lawyer who can turn any trial into one big show stopper. His big number ‘Razzle Dazzle’ truly shines.

Stepping in for Brenda Edwards tonight was Victoria Anderson, in her element as Mama Morton, belting out ‘When You’re Good to Mama’ with just the right amount of soul.

Joshua Lloyd shines as Amos Hart, Roxie’s hopeless husband, heartbreakingly relatable in ‘Mr. Cellophane’, while Jordan Lee Davies brings humour and surprise as the iconic Mary Sunshine.

The staging is simple, with the 12-piece orchestra, sat in full view. It gives the whole show a stripped-back, concert-like feel, letting the band drive the energy – and trust us there’s plenty of it throughout the two hour show. 

Of course, Bob Fosse’s iconic choreography is front and centre of each performance and instantly recognisable. The famous ‘Cell Block Tango’ is as gripping as ever, the audience filled with applause upon finishing.

Chicago has been running for nearly 30 years, but it feels far from tired. If anything, its satirical take on fame and the media feels even sharper today than ever.

At The Lowry, it’s delivered with style, glitz and a lot of sass. One for fans old and new and well worth a night out. 

Catch it until this Saturday 30 August.

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Featured image: Paul Coltas