OVS Upper Campus musical theater on Thursday staged its first performance of Chicago, Broadway’s most-performed American classic masterpiece.
Set in the legendary city during the roaring “jazz hot” 20s and based on real-life murders, Chicago is a dazzling and satirical look at fame, justice, and the media machine. The musical’s plot and symbolic meaning distinguish it from the Upper Campus’ past musicals.
“It’s real life rather than a fantasy like Wizard of Oz and Grease,” said senior Roman Cluff-Thompson, who plays the slick lawyer Billy Flynn. “It’s definitely a more adult play, which is really fun.”
The play follows Roxie Hart (played by junior Donahi Soriano), a wannabe vaudevillian star who murders her lover and is arrested. In the Cook County Jail, Roxie meets her hero, the famed double-murderess and nightclub performer Velma Kelly (played by senior Hannah Little).
When the two acquire the same corrupt lawyer Billy Flynn, tensions come to a head as they vie for the spotlight.
The production is directed by Lisa and John Boyd, veteran teachers of 37 years at Ojai Valley School.
“I am surprised by how much I’ve grown to love this show,” Mrs. Boyd said. “The story is funny and intelligent, and the music is catchy, timeless, and so fun!”
In the past months, the cast and crew worked tirelessly and dedicated much of their time to practice and rehearsing.
Junior Vlada Antipkina went above and beyond for this year’s production, taking a leading role as one of the dancers and choreographing two of the dance scenes — Cell Block Tango and All That Jazz (with help from junior Charles Hsu).
“They were amazing last night,” Vlada said of her fellow dancers in those scene. “Everyone did such a good job.”
Donahi Soriano, who wowed the audience with her singing, dancing and acting for the opening show, was incredibly pleased with the first performance.
“I feel accomplished seeing the whole thing come together and all of the work we put in to produce this amazing show,” Donahi said. “This is the best play we have done in my time here,”
Thursday’s first run-through of the musical dazzled a large audience packed into the Greenberg Activity Center at the Lower Campus. A final performance will be staged today, Dec. 9, at the same location.
Showtime is 7 p.m. and admission is free. Come out and support our students!