Murder, media, and musical magic—Chicago the Musical strutted into East Lansing last night and delivered a performance that was every bit as sharp, sassy, and sensational as audiences have come to expect from this Broadway classic. Now playing at Wharton Center through Sunday, the national tour proves why Chicago is still one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history: it’s pure, unapologetic razzle-dazzle.
Set in the roaring 20s, Chicago follows the scandalous stories of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly—two women accused of murder who use the power of showbiz and the press to manipulate their way to freedom and fame. But while the story is rooted in satire and social commentary, it’s the performances and production quality that make this tour truly shine.
The leading ladies command the stage with equal parts fire and finesse. Taylor Lane brings a fierce physicality and smoky allure to Velma Kelly, opening the show with a thrilling rendition of “All That Jazz” that instantly pulls you into the seductive underworld of jazz-age Chicago. She’s powerful, precise, and every bit the seasoned vaudevillian her character demands.
As Roxie Hart, Ellie Roddy delivers a knockout performance, capturing Roxie’s blend of wide-eyed innocence and manipulative charm with comedic brilliance. Her solo numbers like “Roxie” and “Funny Honey” were met with roaring applause, and her chemistry with Lane in “My Own Best Friend” and “Nowadays” gave the production emotional depth.
Connor Sullivan is perfectly cast as the slick, silver-tongued lawyer Billy Flynn. With effortless charm and vocal control, his “All I Care About Is Love” and “Razzle Dazzle” were showstoppers. Sullivan walks the line between sleazy and suave in a way that keeps the audience both entertained and intrigued.
Angelliz M Rosado Ramos in this performance nearly stole the show as Matron “Mama” Morton, delivering one of the night’s most memorable performances. With powerhouse vocals and undeniable stage presence, Ramos infused the character with a refreshing Latin sass that elevated the role beyond its traditional portrayal. Her rendition of “When You’re Good to Mama” had just the right balance of wit, warmth, and command, making it feel like we were seeing Mama Morton for the first time. That extra flair added texture to the performance and gave the character a vibrant new identity that felt completely at home within the world of Chicago.
Andrew Metzger brings real heart to the often-overlooked Amos Hart. His quiet demeanor and subtle comedic timing made “Mister Cellophane” one of the evening’s most moving moments—earning him one of the biggest rounds of applause of the night.
Of course, Chicago is nothing without its iconic Fosse choreography—and this cast nails it. Every hip roll, finger snap, and shoulder pop is executed with razor-sharp precision. The ensemble is flawless, bringing the sultry atmosphere of a smoky Chicago nightclub to life with every number.
The production’s signature minimalist staging allows the performances and music to take center stage. The on-stage orchestra, under the direction of Cameron Blake Kinnear, adds to the show’s old-school charm, serving not just as accompaniment but as an active character in the story.
Costumes stay true to the original Broadway design—sexy, sleek, and steeped in black. They evoke the vaudeville vibe while leaving room for the performers’ expressiveness to shine.
This touring production manages to balance nostalgia with a freshness that makes Chicago feel as timely as ever. With themes of sensationalism, fame, and justice being manipulated by media and money, the show’s satire still hits hard—perhaps even more so today.
But beyond the commentary, Chicago is simply a joy to watch. It’s smart, stylish, and full of moments that will have you humming on the ride home.
Whether you’re a diehard Broadway fan or new to the magic of musical theatre, don’t miss your chance to see Chicago at the Wharton Center before it heads to its next stop. This is one show where the talent is high, the energy is electric, and the jazz is—without a doubt—all that.
Chicago the Musical runs through Sunday at Wharton Center in East Lansing, Michigan.
For tickets and showtimes, visit whartoncenter.com.
