Chicago Murder, exploitation and the insatiable desire for fame come to the Murat Theatre

Sexy.

It’s the best word to describe Chicago –– its singing, dancing, music and, perhaps most obvious, costumes.

The show opens with Velma Kelly (Terra C. MacLeod), who we learn has murdered her husband and sister after finding them in bed together, and the show’s famous song “All That Jazz.”

In the meantime, we learn of Roxie Hart (Bianca Marroquin), who has murdered her lover, Fred Casely. Roxie’s husband, Amos (Tom Riis Farrell), gladly takes the blame for the murder. But the truth comes out, and Roxie’s arrested and taken to the women’s block of the Cook County Jail.

In “Cell Block Tango,” we meet Roxie’s fellow inmates and learn why they’re incarcerated. Let’s just say you wouldn’t want to cross these ladies –– no gum popping tolerated here.

We also meet the exploitative Matron “Mama” Morton, played with plenty of sass by Carol Woods. With her help, Velma became the top story in the newspapers. Mama also is helping Velma plan her return to vaudeville –– all for a price, of course.

Velma’s not happy that Roxie’s stealing her thunder –– and her lawyer, the slick-talking, impeccable suit-wearing Billy Flynn (Tom Wopat), who takes on these cases only to steal his share of the limelight.

Thanks to Billy, Roxie becomes the talk of the town, the darling of the press. Soon, though, a new scandal erupts, and Roxie’s pushed aside. Roxie decides that being pregnant is the best way to reclaim her rightful spot in the spotlight.

Amos is thrilled he’s going to be a father. He seems to be the only one who doesn’t realize it’s a farce.

Roxie’s growing ego and confidence are taken down a few notches when she learns fellow inmate Hunyak is hanged for her crime. Billy still promises an acquittal –– which Roxie gets –– but before the verdict is read, the attention of the press turns to the latest and greatest sensational crime.

The trial over, Flynn takes off, and Roxie confesses to Amos that there is no baby. Amos leaves Roxie, who is once again down and out before teaming up with Velma for a new act.

The choreography, the obviously talented actors and actresses, the sequined costumes –– it all made for one super sexy, toe-tapping and entertaining show.
In a way, it reminded me of today’s celebrities and how they’ll do, say or wear just about anything to get their faces plastered on tabloid covers.

And just when you think you’ve heard the last of them, they cook up another crazy idea to get one more shot at publicity. Then the next big thing comes along, and they’re forgotten about once again.

When you think about it, Velma and Roxie aren’t much different from Britney and Lindsey.

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by Laura Kruty

My Way Actors Theatre of Indiana pays tribute to Frank Sinatra

In a packed theater at the Carmel Community Playhouse, Don Farrell opened My Way with vocal talents that were as smooth as Sinatra. One by one, the members of Actors Theatre of Indiana strolled out onto the 1950’s lounge-type set and introduced themselves through the stylings of Sinatra.

My Way was packed with more than 50 Sinatra songs and tidbits about the musical genius himself. Classics like “New York, New York,” “Strangers in the Night,” “Luck Be a Lady” and “Fly Me to the Moon” poured into the audience’s hearts and transported the audience straight to the stage.

As much as I would like to swoon over this musical, there were a few glitches with opening night. One of the microphones was off for the entire first half and the set lights were half off.

But the show must go on –– and it certainly did. The talent of Actors Theatre of Indiana was so bright they practically turned the lights on themselves. Cindy Collins is a comical genius who used everything from her voice to her toes to act and sing. Her comedic timing was impeccable.

The music itself was built with medleys of Frank’s songs, as well as originals of many of the classics and themes. The bridge that built the songs together was strong and well done. One of the themes was “take a tour of Sinatra’s world,” which was built of songs taking the audience through “I Love Paris” and everyone’s favorite “New York, New York.” Practically every audience member was tapping their feet, singing along or at least bobbing their heads.

“I Get a Kick Out of You” truly highlighted Judy Fitzgerald. She sung passionately every note with her voice that was built for Broadway. A three-piece band backed the group and actively participated in the performance by not only keeping a perfect swing tempo but also by saying a few lines. The percussionist, Greg Wolff, played with absolute facility and was featured in a great solo in “The Lady is a Tramp.”

Don sang “A Summer Wind,” which could warm even the coldest of winter winds. The entire group’s acting went beyond emulating emotions through words. The audience could feel the passion and sentiment of every note sung.

During the second half, all the microphones were on, and suddenly a new talent was discovered –– Jon Lambert. As Jon and Don sang “Can I Steal a Little Love,” the audience was in stitches. This song was definitely a highlight of the evening.

Actors Theatre brought a refreshing theatrical performance to Carmel, one that was packed full of heartfelt songs that made the audience want to get on the stage and join.

“My Way” not only transports you to the “good ’ol days” but it takes you straight to Broadway. It’s a feel-good musical that leaves you wanting more, and the good news is that you can have it. Sinatra may be gone, but you certainly heard his voice live at the Carmel Playhouse.

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by Tory Flynn