By: Ava Abbate, Clearview Regional High School, Mullica Hill
LINDENWOLD, NJ — Lindenwold High School’s production of “Chicago: Teen Edition” surely razzle-dazzled the audience, leaving them wanting for more from the first curtain call to the final bow!
“Chicago,” based upon the 1926 play by Maurine Dallas Watkins, premiered on Broadway in 1975. After mixed successes, the revival hit the theatre’s in 1996 and is now one of the longest running revivals on Broadway. It was later awarded the Tony for Best Revival along with other awards. The show tells the story of little miss Roxie Hart, a small town girl with dreams of fame and fortune who finds herself in a predicament after being arrested for the murder of her lover.
Lindenwold High School’s cast of “Chicago: Teen Edition” brought vigorous energy, sensational voices, and top-notch choreography to the stage that ultimately anchored the show. The dazzling costumes, astounding stage crew, and cascading light effects vivified the musical.
Lucero Jaramillo-Sanchez (Roxie Hart) and Jayden Garcia-Hernandez (Billy Flynn) both displayed marvelous vocals and impressive stamina throughout the entire musical. Lucero presented the audience with wonderful characterization whether she was playing the innocently charming girl or a self absorbed star, specifically in her songs “Funny Honey” and “Roxie.” Jayden’s comedic voice modulation during his song “Both Reached For The Gun” not only provided comedic humor, but also helped the audience differentiate between the two different parts of the song. Both leads demonstrated amazing chemistry with fellow cast members which really drew the audience in.
Every memorable musical is supported by a strong ensemble and Lindenwold High School’s ensemble was no exception. Each member of the cast made themselves seen thanks to their emphasized facial expressions and electrified energy. Saleema Sabree (Velma Kelly) exhibited on-point vocals and amazing chemistry with Billy and Roxie throughout the show; her first number, however, “All That Jazz” stood out the most. Velma commanded the stage with striking dance moves that charmed the audience from beginning to end. The Tapping Devils and Billy’s Angels stood out specifically in “Razzle Dazzle” thanks to their skillful tap dancing and creative usage of circus elements that enhanced the show. Finally, Travon Alhassan (MC) made outstanding acting choices and used precise, clear diction to help guide the show and introduce the audience to the next thrilling number.
Lindenwold High School’s “Chicago: Teen Edition” had multiple student-led tech categories along with its marketing and publicity, lighting, and stage crew which truly excelled. Cilio Molina Gutierrez designed a series of different tickets for each show, the poster, the playbill, and, along with from Taj Young, the newspaper. Their eye-catching color schemes drew the audience’s attention and highlighted even the smallest details. Easton Natalio-Kisielnicki designed/ran the lighting features for the musical. There were 301 cues, which included flashes of red lights (gun shots) and spotlights that beautifully illuminated the stage. All in all, Lindenwold High School’s stage crew did a superb job moving sets quickly and quietly off stage throughout the show. Each crew member wore a matching costume that added to the overall creativity of the show as well.
Lindenwold High School’s cast of “Chicago: Teen Edition” left the stage on fire thanks to all that jazz!
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