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Bold and brassy

5/8/2017

2 Comments

 
Picture
The hands have it: choreographer Rose Wray-McCann shows the quintessential “‘jazz hands” to the cast of Chicago.
Scandalous costumes, a bold and brassy band, hot numbers and outrageous songs … Wonthaggi Theatrical Group’s production of Chicago has the lot.
By Nina Barry-Macaulay
 
IMAGINE the most glamorous art deco set, laden with talented women in scandalously stunning costumes, a bold and brassy band, fantastic choreography, and a soundtrack that has your feet tapping and eyes shining …
 
This is what audiences can expect from Wonthaggi Theatrical Group’s upcoming production of Chicago.
 
Set in 1920s Chicago, Chicago takes its audience on a vaudeville tour of Velma Kelly and Roxy Hart’s criminal trials. Both women are accused of murder and, with the help of criminal lawyer Billy Flynn, learn to use the media to manipulate their way out of jail and into stardom.
 
The cast and crew have been working tirelessly over a short and intense eight-week rehearsal period. Blessed with an experienced cast who have been diligent in learning lines and steps, and a skilled creative team, director Karen Milkins-Hendry is thrilled with their progress. “It’s a little crazy to think that we open in two weeks.”
 
Milkins-Hendry says you don’t have to be a musical theatre buff to be entertained by Chicago because it has something that appeals to everyone.  “I’m so excited to share this show with the community. I really hope people come out to see it. It’s a real crowd pleaser – full of humor, wit, dancing and action.”
 
Chicago will be on stage at the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre from Saturday, August 19 to Saturday, September 2. Tickets are on sale at www.wtg.org or in the foyer of the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre from 10am-2pm Tuesday to Friday, starting from Tuesday, August 8.

2 Comments
Geoff Ellis
6/8/2017 08:35:36 am

Wow ! I just booked my tickets !

Reply
Michael Whelan
29/8/2017 08:14:48 am

"Congratulations Wonthaggi Theatrical Group - what a great job. And congratulations to the people of Wonthaggi and the wider Bass Coast for the support of the show. It was a good feeling to see the theatre at capacity and what a great venue it is. The experience of last night reinforces my view that the money that will be spent on the theatre by Council this year will be worth every cent!

I was impressed with the quality of the performances from people who I’m told mainly have real jobs. In particular, I have met “Roxie” Nina Barry-Macauley in her day job, I have even seen her glammed up for the evening of the Mayors Fundraiser earlier this year but wow, what a chameleon. I thoroughly enjoyed her performance.

All of the main characters hit it well. I liked Bron Kallos as Velma and didn’t like the manipulative Billy Flynn so Will Hanley did a great job and what a great voice Mama has. Jay Nelson as the repressed Amos with his crumpled hat won the audience hearts. We were impressed with the band who I understand were also selected by audition for the gig and of course the lighting was a great support.

A lot more people than we see up front goes into a production like this and I think it speaks well of our community that we have such great talent, teamwork and such a volunteer ethos.

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