Chicago Looks Good In Minneapolis
I saw Chicago at the Orpheum Theater in Minneapolis two nights ago, and going in, my expectations were very high. As one of the longest‑running musicals on Broadway—with an Oscar‑winning movie adaptation and a soundtrack practically everyone knows—I was ready for something huge.
And while I genuinely had a great night out, I have to admit… I left feeling just the tiniest bit underwhelmed. I know, I know — it feels almost scandalous to say, especially since everyone seems to adore it! But honestly, it just wouldn’t crack the top of my list.
That’s the fun thing about the arts, though: they’re totally subjective. I might think something is absolutely brilliant, and the person next to me might be counting down the minutes until intermission. It all comes down to personal taste — and that’s what keeps things interesting!
Chicago follows Roxie Hart, an ambitious housewife who murders her lover and suddenly becomes the center of a media frenzy. In jail, she meets star–turned–murderess Velma Kelly, whose celebrity status Roxie quickly tries to outshine. With the help of slick defense attorney Billy Flynn, both women manipulate the press, reinvent themselves, and turn their crimes into a twisted form of fame. The show is ultimately a satire of celebrity culture, corruption, and the glamorization of dark news.
Story-wise, I think I went in expecting something deeper or more emotionally layered, which was really my own misconception about what Chicago is meant to be. That said, one thing was obvious from the moment the lights dimmed: this show has a very loyal fanbase. Between the crowd’s reactions and the number of people dressed up in themed outfits, it was clear that Chicago is a fan-favorite that people return to again and again.
The cast delivered strong, polished performances across the board. Claire Marshall brought sharpness and attitude to Velma Kelly, Ellie Roddy nailed Roxie Hart’s bubbly chaos and charm, and Max Cervantes carried Billy Flynn with ease, charisma, and vocal power. Marc Christopher’s “Mister Cellophane” was one of the most heartfelt moments of the show—sweet, funny, and understated.
Seeing Bob Fosse’s signature choreography live was an undeniable highlight. This production leans heavily and proudly on its dance roots, and the ensemble’s precision was mesmerizing. Hearing classics like All That Jazz and Cell Block Tango performed live was such a thrill, and the onstage band added a great cabaret-club atmosphere. Just about every other number, I found myself thinking, “This song is from Chicago??” Those little realizations really reinforced its legendary status for me.
Even with my expectations working against me a bit, I walked away impressed. If you love dance-heavy shows, that unmistakable Fosse look, or iconic jazz-infused musical theater, this production absolutely delivers. It may not offer deep emotional storytelling, but its style, talent, and pure theatrical flash make it well worth seeing.
And you can still get tickets here for shows through February 1st!
