Christ’s Hospital School hosted a dazzling production of the hit musical Chicago on 2-4 December. It was the first major school production since the theatre, which was designed by renowned architect Bill Howell, re-opened after extensive refurbishment. The cast of Chicago was mostly comprised of pupils from years 11-13 and featured lavish costumes and a live band on stage, made up of professional musicians, who brought to life famous songs including All That Jazz and Razzle Dazzle.
Set amidst the decadence of the 1920s, Chicago is the story of sensational murderess Velma Kelly (played by Year 13 pupil Ifunanya Obilonu), the reigning queen of the Cook County jail, and Roxie Hart, played by Georgina Catt (also Year 13), a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, Roxie hires Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer, Billy Flynn, played by Benjamin McGreevy (Year 12), as her defence; he transforms her malicious crime into a barrage of sensational headlines, the likes of which might just as easily be seen in today’s tabloids.
Auditions and rehearsals for the musical were affected by social distancing restrictions, with the cast only able to meet in year group bubbles. “When it came to auditioning for Chicago, the process was unusual because of COVID and most of us had to record our audition. We had to act out dialogue as well as perform a song. I sang Love on Top by Beyonce and landed the part of Velma, which is a role you dream about!” explains Ifunanya Obilonu. “This was my first time performing in a theatre of this stature. It’s nerve-racking, because it feels like a professional production, but that’s what makes it so special.”
Head of drama Fiona Bardsley, who worked alongside professional choreographer/dancer Sophia Priolo on the show’s big numbers, said of the theatre at Christ’s Hospital: “It’s such a wonderful performance space – there are many repertory theatre groups that don’t have a venue as nice as this! I’m sure the pupils are aware how fortunate they are and we’re all thankful for the opportunity to use it for lessons and shows again. It’s a wonderful asset for the school and shows like Chicago create life-long memories.”
“I love performing on stage, but it’s been fun watching from the side too” says Georgina Catt, who was outstanding in her role as Roxie Hart and is also lead alto in the school’s chapel choir. “One of the great things about the drama department is that there are many ways you can be part of the productions. Apart from the acting, there were also pupils involved in costume design and helping technicians with lighting and sets.”
Head of singing Verity Bramson took the principal cast for one-to-one sessions, working on their characters and vocalisations. “Some people are great singers but can’t communicate orally or are brilliant actors but don’t have the confidence to use their voice” explains Miss Bramson. “What I tried to do is find the middle ground to create more rounded performers, giving them the confidence to act and sing.”
Music and performing arts play an important role at Christ’s Hospital, with the biannual senior school production being a highlight for pupils. Several former pupils have gone on to enjoy successful acting careers, including Jason Flemyng (Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels), Susannah Fielding (This Time with Alan Partridge) and Roger Allam (Endeavour, V for Vendetta). Drama scholarships are available for pupils entering the school at Year 9 and Sixth Form.
Categories: Christ's Hospital School School News
