November 20, 2024

“Acres of sass and talent showcased in Chicago: Teen Edition” – IW County Press

Last month, our young performers stepped into the roaring 1920s, transforming Medina Theatre into the vibrant, jazz-filled streets of Chicago. With their energetic and bold rendition of Chicago: Teen Edition. the cast delivered a night of musical theatre brimming with talent, confidence, and style.

The cast delivered a night of musical theatre brimming with talent, confidence, and style.

The production captured the gripping tales of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, two women caught up in scandal, crime, and the chaos of the Cook County Jail. Although adapted for a younger cast, the story retained its sharp wit and biting commentary, drawing the audience into its comedic yet thought-provoking exploration of fame and corruption.

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One of the hallmarks of this production was the powerful use of the ensemble. Choreographed  and directed by Callum Davies, the large cast brought the high-energy routines to life, ensuring every performer had their moment to shine. The creative staging and vibrant choreography made the most of the story’s rich musical content, keeping the audience captivated from start to finish.

 

Mary Sheath brought charm and cheek to her portrayal of Roxie Hart, delivering a natural and engaging performance that had the audience rooting for her mischievous character. Lottie Paine, as Velma Kelly, oozed confidence and flair, showcasing not only her acting skills but also her precise and dynamic dance execution. Together, they were an unstoppable duo, setting the tone for the production.

 

The show had its fair share of standout moments. Lilly Valvona’s commanding performance as Mama Morton brought incredible vocals and charisma to “When You’re Good to Mama,” making it one of the highlights of the first act. Lyla Hunter’s portrayal of Amos Hart was heartwarming, giving this understated character depth and earning a well-deserved reaction from the audience.  
 
Catherine Propia’s confident and swaggering take on Billy Flynn rounded out the leading cast, her performance full of charm and assurance. Each student brought their own energy and talent to the production, giving the show a youthful and exciting edge.

Productions like Chicago: Teen Edition are vital for young performers, giving them the opportunity to tackle challenging material and experience the magic of live theatre. Seeing the cast embrace this classic with such enthusiasm and skill was a joy for everyone involved, both on and off stage.

As we reflect on this performance, we couldn’t be prouder of what these students achieved. Their hard work, dedication, and love for the art of theatre truly brought this iconic story to life. It was a night filled with music, movement, and unforgettable moments – a testament to the talent and passion of our Theatretrain family.

Credit: Paul Bird Photography

Theatretrain, a nationwide provider of weekend theatre schools for young people aged 4-18, specialises in weekly classes in acting, singing, and dancing. An emphasis is placed on learning valuable life skills such as confidence, empathy, courage, and resilience. If you know a child who loves to dance, act and sing or could do with a little confidence boost why not visit to find out what our performing arts classes can offer your child at one of our 80 locations across the UK.

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