RAIED SHUQUM (ABU DHABI)
Abu Dhabi is set to be dazzled by the glitz and glamour of Broadway as “Chicago The Musical” makes its way to the Etihad Arena, Yas Island, from September 12 to 22. The musical has a rich and fascinating history that spans nearly a century, from its origins as a play to its status as one of the longest-running shows on Broadway.
The iconic musical, known for its captivating story, sensational choreography, and unforgettable music, promises to deliver all the elements that have made it a perennial favourite on Broadway.
The story of “Chicago The Musical” began with a 1926 play written by Maurine Dallas Watkins, a reporter for the Chicago Tribune. Watkins based her play on real-life events she covered, specifically the trials of Beulah Annan and Belva Gaertner, two women accused of murder in 1924. The play was a satire on corruption in the criminal justice system and the concept of the “celebrity criminal”.
In 1975, the play was adapted into a musical by the legendary team of John Kander (music), Fred Ebb (lyrics), and Bob Fosse (book and choreography). The musical retained the satirical edge of the original play, focusing on the sensationalism of crime and the media’s role in creating celebrities out of criminals. The original Broadway production opened on June 3, 1975, at the 46th Street Theatre and ran for 936 performances.
While the original production was well-received, it did not achieve the same level of success as some of its contemporaries. However, the 1996 Broadway revival, directed by Walter Bobbie and choreographed by Ann Reinking in the style of Bob Fosse, became a massive hit. This revival won six Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical, and has become the longest-running American musical in Broadway history.
It has been staged in numerous productions around the world, including the West End, where it also enjoyed significant success. The 2002 film adaptation, directed by Rob Marshall and starring Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Richard Gere, won the Academy Award for Best Picture.
The musical has captivated audiences for decades. Set in the roaring 1920s, it follows the lives of two fiercely ambitious women, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, who find themselves on trial for murder. Their journey through the criminal justice system, fuelled by their desire for fame and fortune, is a tantalising tale of passion, greed, and betrayal. The musical’s themes of ambition and the pursuit of the American Dream resonate as strongly today as they did when it first premiered.
The storyline sees wannabe vaudeville star, Hart, murder her lover when he threatened to leave her. She convinces her husband, Amos, to take the blame, but the truth soon comes out, and she is arrested. In jail, Hart meets Kelly, a famous nightclub singer and double-murderess. Kelly is initially the star inmate, but Hart’s arrival threatens her spotlight.
Both women hire the same slick lawyer, Billy Flynn, who turns their trials into a media circus, manipulating public opinion to gain their acquittals, highlighting how media sensationalism can turn criminals into stars, blurring the lines between fame and infamy.
Bringing the Broadway classic to Abu Dhabi is no small feat. From the dazzling costumes and sets to the electrifying performances, audiences can expect a show that is both visually stunning and emotionally powerful. The Etihad Arena, with its state-of-the-art facilities, is the perfect venue to host such a grand production, ensuring that every seat in the house offers a spectacular view of the stage.
One of the key factors behind the enduring success of the musical is its talented cast and crew. The Abu Dhabi production will feature a mix of seasoned Broadway performers and local talent, bringing a unique flavour to the show. The choreography, originally created by the legendary Bob Fosse, will be faithfully recreated, ensuring that the dance numbers are as mesmerising as ever. The music, with its jazz-infused score, will be performed live by a talented orchestra, adding to the overall magic of the experience.
In addition to the performances, there will be a series of related events and activities.
This production is part of a collaboration between Proactiv Entertainment, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and Miral.