Drama

Razzle Dazzle: Raising The Curtain on Chicago The Musical

The energy was electric with anticipation at John XXIII College, as the curtains rose on a sold-out production that promised to scintillate and enthral. This year, the theatrical spotlight fell on Chicago, the highly acclaimed musical penned by the legendary trio of John Kander, Fred Ebb, and Bob Fosse. Set against the sensational backdrop of the roaring 1920s but resonating just as powerfully today, Chicago is a biting satire that delves into themes of corruption, crime, and the insatiable desire for fame.

Under the direction of our own talented Head of Drama, George Tsakisiris, with a cast of 54 students ranging from Years 10 to 12, plus a 14-piece live band, the stage was set for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Chicago's underworld. George’s decision to stage Chicago was inspired not only by its timeless social relevance but also by its distinct musical style, offering a departure from previous productions and a chance for students to explore new artistic avenues.

Auditions for the production took place last year, and since then, the cast dedicated themselves to bringing these iconic characters to life. From the conniving Roxie Hart to the hapless Amos and the sassy Velma Kelly, each actor embarked on a unique journey of character exploration and growth.

For Holly Denton (Year 12), who portrayed Roxie Hart, the experience was nothing short of transformative. 'Playing Roxie has been such an educational and unique journey,' she shares. 'It allowed me to act in ways I have never acted before, as she is quite a complex character. The experience was simply thrilling, and I am beyond grateful.'

Felix Frichot (Year 12), who embodied the role of Amos, echoes similar sentiments, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to delve into a character unlike any he's played before. 'It's helped me explore a style of character that I'm not accustomed to,' he reflects. 'Playing a more reserved character, who you can't help but feel sorry for, has greatly assisted me in my Drama studies as well.'

For Hannah Dale (Year 12), who brought Velma Kelly to life, the challenges of the character were met with enthusiasm and determination. 'Velma was a very fun character to play,' she remarks. 'Her songs are incredible to sing, and she has some fantastic lines. I love how Velma is always putting on a show, you almost don’t get to see the real her for the entire musical.'

Beyond the thrill of embodying these iconic characters, the students spoke passionately about the camaraderie and sense of community fostered by the production. 'The friendships and community within the cast were one of my main highlights,' shares Holly. 'It truly does change your school life, finding people that share the same passion is something that everyone should experience.'

Behind the scenes, the dedication of individuals like teacher Kiri Moore, who designed the set and costumes, and alumni like Caelan Morris, who built the entire set, ensured that every aspect of the production was executed with precision and artistry. Parents, current students, and alumni alike came together to contribute their talents to the production, from makeup and costumes to lighting and sound.

'Our talented students, staff, parents, and alumni have worked incredibly hard to bring the razzle-dazzle of 'Chicago' to life on our stage,' affirms Vice Principal Shani Andrews. 'From the dances, songs, live band and acting, to the costumes, set and audio visuals, they have poured their hearts into this production. It has been uplifting to see everyone developing their skills, gaining confidence, and coming together as a team to create something special for our school community to enjoy. We couldn't be more proud of them.'

Indeed, the success of Chicago is a testament to the collaborative spirit that permeates our school community. As Hannah Dale aptly puts it, 'None of this would have been possible without the constant help and support from everyone involved.'

As the curtain rose on our rendition of Chicago, we invited our audience to join us on a journey through the glitz and glamour of the Jazz Age, where the pursuit of fame and fortune took centre stage. Through laughter, tears, and toe-tapping tunes, we imparted a timeless lesson about the allure of celebrity and the often-murky depths beneath its surface. 

George Tsakisiris

Head of Learning Area - The Arts