Saturday, June 8, 2002

The fleeting nature of fame -- and our drive for it -- is a theme of "Chicago," now on view at Theatre Harrisburg.

The story of the real-life Roxie Hart, upon whose 1920s murder trial the show is based, has been old in a play, silent film, a talkie and this musical, which debuted on Broadway in 1975 and is now in revival.

Artistic director Thomas G. Hostetter has treated the tawdry events of the story with tasteful sassiness -- a winning combination.

Dance is sometimes a weak link in local productions. But Theatre Harrisburg lucked out with Judy Williams Henry, who studied with original choreographer Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon, the first Broadway Roxie.

Williams Henry has created dances true to the sensuous spirit of Fosse and well suited to the talents of her performers -- who dance (and sing) remarkably well.

Shari Stevens is dramatically and vocally strong in the title role, as the independent-minded chorus girl who loses whatever honesty she had in Chicago's justice system.

Although Roxie and Velma Hart -- played by Kendra Ferguson -- compete in jail, they're well matched onstage. Ferguson sings well and moves her dancer's body like a serpent.

As Billy Flynn, the lawyer who craves money and publicity, David M. Fisher is having the most fun since he appeared in "La Cage Aux Folles."

Ed Costik is likable as Roxie's betrayed husband. His "Mr Cellophane" song provides the most heartwarming moment in the show.

Cheri Fisher is well cast as wise-cracking prison matron.

R. Askey, taking a break from the pit as frequent orchestra director, gives a flamboyant performance as Mary Sunshine, a kind of singing Oprah of the '20s.

Though the MC isn't pivotal here, Steve Flom does what's needed. He's even more noticeable as the collective jury members in Roxie's trial scene.

Jennifer Anderson conducts the orchestra with verve. George Diehl is vocal director.

Robert Klingelhoefer's gorgeous set and Paul R. Foltz's lush costumes enhance the production.

The music is by John Kander with lyrics by Fred Ebb. The book is by Ebb and Fosse.

Sharing a dispassionate, cynical view of human nature with Kander and Ebb's megahit, "Cabaret," "Chicago" lacks the plot and character complexities of its sister show.