‘Chicago’ set to dazzle

More than three decades ago, beneath the bright New York City lights, a musical filled with murder, greed and plenty of action made its mark on Broadway.

The yet-to-be-opened play “Chicago,” went on to win six Tony Awards and became an Academy Award winning film starring Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renée Zellweger.

Patti D’Beck, director and choreographer of the Theatre VCU spring production of “Chicago,” fondly remembers auditioning for the musical in the 70s Broadway scene. Although she ended up taking a role at the show next door, “Pippin,” D’Beck recalled warm memories of the two casts visiting each other through the alleys of Broadway.

It was D’Beck’s Broadway connection (having choreographed and performed in 13 shows) that enabled her to bring the production to the Raymond Hodges Theatre stage. This was not an easy feat because the Broadway version of “Chicago” is currently on tour.

“I called (the Broadway ‘Chicago’ producers) and explained to them where we were,” D’Beck said.

After explaining VCU’s audience and assuring they would not take business from their tour, the producers granted D’Beck access to go ahead with the production.

“They trusted me and knew it would be done well,” D’Beck said.

These professional expectations came to culmination through the assembly of a triple-threat cast-actors, dancers and singers who will be joined by a live orchestra starting this Thursday.

Matt James, a theatre performance major, faced the challenge of playing the role of reporter Mary Sunshine.

“The songs are written in an operatic key,” James said. “I am singing in a male falsetto throughout the entire show.”

D’Beck brought intricate sets, costumes and custom-choreographed dance numbers to the VCU production, which she said differ from both the Broadway and movie versions.

James, who has worked with D’Beck in three different shows, enjoyed the professional aspect and dedication she brought to the show.

“(She brings) such joy, passion and soul”, James said. “She’s been sick as a dog and is still (at rehearsal).”

D’Beck, who has also directed five VCU plays, said she was thrilled to work with the 12-member cast, four understudies and crew members, even though this was the first time she guided such a large group in a play.

“This is a big show,” D’Beck said. “Bigger than I realized.”

Theatre VCU’s production of “Chicago,” will run April 10-12, 16-18 and 23-25 at 7:30 p.m., April 19 and 26 at 3:00 p.m. High school matinees are at 10 a.m., Tuesday April 14, Wednesday April 15, Tuesday April 21 and Wednesday April 22.

Ticket prices are $20 for general admission, seniors, $18 for VCU faculty and staff and $8 for VCU students with valid I.D. and $18 for other students with valid I.D. and $12 per person for groups of 20 or more. Tickets can be purchased at the Raymond Hodges Theatre Box Office, W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, or reserved by calling 828-6026 or by e-mailing theatretix@vcu.edu.