‘Chicago’ Opens At Grace Arts Live This Weekend With Jazz Age Glamour

By Nicole Matheson

Elijah Aston/RiverScene

Another brilliant show begins at Grace Arts Live this weekend; a classic and the second longest running musical on Broadway, “Chicago”. With show-stopping dance numbers, thrilling vocal performances, and “all that jazz,” “Chicago” features a live band and two guest artists alongside a talented cast and crew of Havasu locals.

“Chicago” is set in the 1920s, and based upon real-life murder cases. It follows an aspiring vaudevillian star, Roxie Hart, as she is arrested for murder. In jail she meets Velma Kelly, famous for murder as well as night club performance. Alyson Chapin and Lauren Blain play Hart and Kelly respectively in this community theater production. Bill Weldon plays the part of Billy Flynn, who becomes both Hart and Kelly’s sleazy superstar lawyer.

Elijah Aston/RiverScene

RiverScene caught up with director and leading lady Lauren Blain at rehearsal, and she is no stranger to this show or this role having played the part years prior.

“This time around, I’m actually the same age as the character, so the role feels more natural and grounded,” says Blain. “When I played it before, it was like a little girl trying on her mom’s high heels, exciting but a bit awkward.”

Joining the cast are Janien Valentine and Kyle Short, industry professionals that Blain says have been “wonderful” to work with. “I love working with guest artists they always bring such professionalism, positivity, and great energy to our productions.”

Elijah Aston/RiverScene

“Audiences love a classic, big, old-time Broadway show that transports them to another era,” Blain said regarding the continued popularity of “Chicago”.

“And having a live band on stage adds a whole new level of energy and excitement to the Grace Arts Live experience.”

Elijah Aston/RiverScene

“Chicago” opens tonight at 7:30 p.m., and continues and Saturday night at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, at 2 p.m. The show will run two more weekends, November 14-16, and 21-23.

For ticket information, visit graceartslive.com or visit the box office Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. and up to one hour before show times. You may also call at 928-505.2787.

Advisory: this show contains adult language and themes, including sexual innuendo and parental discretion is advised.

Here are more pictures of Grace Arts Live’s Chicago: