Reader Reviews
Chicago (Cambridge Theatre, West End)
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 | I've seen this show countless times and as there hasn't been a review recently, I thought I'd just add my thoughts. The current cast has got to be the best I've ever seen (bar Ruthie Henshall, but we all know that amaing woman can do no wrong!) Emma Barton is fantastic as Roxie and is even better than she was on tour and I thought she was fabulous then. Terrence Maynard is the best Billy Flynn I've ever seen, and Jasna Ivir is easily the best Mamma - she cries during the Hunyak's scene and I've never seen another Mamma do that. And her voice is amazing. Rachel Muldoon is also the best Hunyak I've seen - the way she acts during her monologue in 'Cell Block Tango' is so powerful, and Lisa Norman is just the absolute stand out of all the ensemble (not just because of her height!) She just has the energy and the flawless performance skills and the enthusiasm. Finally, I have to say how incredible I think the current 'unknown' Velma is, played by Vivien Carter. She was previously in the ensemble understudying but has deservedly been given the role and extended twice. She's even better than Ruthie as Velma, and I never thought I'd say that! There is such power to her voice, particularly in 'All That Jazz' and 'My Own Best Friend' and she brings an emotion to Velma I've not seen before. I'll be seeing her for the forth time in August and can't wait. I highly recommend this show, particularly for it's current cast! - ChicagoFan175 | 04 Jul 10 |
| saw the show the other day it was ok. not seen it since natalie edmunds left and if im honest the show looks like its missing her! she needs to be back on it i have seen the show 4 times now natalie was general cast for 2 and the third time she was velma and oh my god she was breath taking!!!!! get her on as permanent velma and the show will kick ass again i wont be going to see chicago again not unless she is back in it she can sing she can dance she can act and to top it all off shes got a stunning face and an amazing body to be honest the show is ok but natalie just completed it seriously the casting guys you need her back i also saw her in the cats tour she was impressive in that to x - louuuu | 27 Sep 09 |
| Chicago's the best musical ever,im taught drama and singing in manchester by Natalie Edmunds who plays Velma Kelly at her sisters dance school and shes amazing and she makes us work hard in both dance and singing, and see sings with us and teaches us and shes just super !! ive seen the film a 100 times and im going to see it at Xmas in London and I want to be in the West End my self one day and with a icon like that teaching me I hope I have a chance !! go see it :) - James | 30 Aug 09 |
| The show was okay, I missed one thing after watching it 4 times over the past few years, NATALIE EDMUNDS! I mean she is feirce on stage and the show needs her. Where is she now? Go back to it Natalie! - C. | 04 Aug 09 |
| was amazing trip of a lifetime!!!! :D - will | 06 Jul 09 |
| Is this crap still on? - joesmith | 12 Sep 08 |
| Cameron was utterly superb as Roxie at the Adelphi. The previous reviewer either caught an unusually off performance or is just someone who can't be easily pleased. - MC | 02 Aug 08 |
| Fucking hell. People often ask why I don't hang around with West End Wendies and why I left musical theatre - the evidence is below. What low grade, boring, bitchy insignificant comments. If I were Natalie Edmunds (haven't a clue who she is but sure she's lovely) I'd be delighted that some sad arsehole is so jealous as to spend any time writing about her at all. Tits and Teeth - ha! More like Tits and FANGS.. Good luck all you bimbo trolley dollies. Worried much about World Politics? Duh. - peabody | 30 May 08 |
| Good show for the 10th anniversary performance although the awful speeches were way too long and very self indulgent. Good performances from most of the leading performers but specially Josefina Gabrielle, Ruthie Henshall, Sue Kelvin, Caroline O'Connor and of course Ute Lemper, they were fantastic. Of course then you also had some terrible performers who spoilt the parts they were in, like Darius Danesh and Frances Ruffelle. Also the ensemble was quite bad in general, except for 2 or 3 people. - Rich | 21 Dec 07 |
| Excellent show for the 10th anniversary performance on the 5th December 2007 and good to see all proceeds went to charity. The stars from past and present all gave their time freely to make this a night to remember and it certainly entertained. Good performances from all but special mention must go to Josefina Gabrielle and Ruthie Henshall as Roxie, Darius Danesh as Billy Flynn, Sue Kelvin as Mama Morton and Caroline O'Connor as Velma, they were all fantastic. The theatre was packed out and extremely busy and the whole cast received a well deserved standing ovation at the end. - Rachel W | 08 Dec 07 |
| I went to the 10th Anniversary show and thought for a 'bits and pieces' type of show it was quiet good - I loved Aoife Mulholland, she has come a long way, also thought Ute Lemper doing ATJ was great, Caroline O'Connor was fantastic as was Ruthie doing Roxie - the down side for me was Claire Sweeney and Kelly Osbourne - those who were just 'ok' were Denise VO and Brenda Edwards etc - the men were also mostly just 'ok', some worse, but this is really a show for the women leads. On the whole I enjoyed it - 'for what it was'. - Conner H | 07 Dec 07 |
| Saw the 10th Anniversary show. Self congratulatory introduction by a very overweight Walter Bobbie, boring. The show was in general quite good. The Roxies were all quite good except for the awful Frances Ruffelle who was appalling. The best for me were Ruthie Henshall and Josefina Gabrielle. The Velmas were all good, but Ute Lemper and Caroline O'Connor stole the show, they were fantastic. The Billys were all very weak. Pity that the fantastic Henry Goodman couldn't do a number, just the announcement dressed up as Tevye, and then I guess he run to perform in Fiddler. Terrence Maynard was the only one who acted and sang nicely although his Billy lacks spark. The other ones were pretty bad, the worst darius Danesh. Nigel Planer was ok as Amos singing Mr Cellophane, the other five Amoses did nothing but parading at the end of the song, it looked quite stupid. The best Mama was Sue Kelvin, really spot on, Brenda Edwards was fine but Kelly Osborne and Gaby Roslin were just terrible they can't act at all. Overall it was very entertaining, good atmosphere although it was far from sold out. I thought it was a very bad decission to do this performance the same day as the British Comedy Awards, which was where most celebrities went. On a different day it would have sold out. This way they had to give many tickets away to have a reasonable amount of people in the audience. Because of this I got my ticket for free so I can't complain. - Robert R | 06 Dec 07 |
| I didnt like it much this time. Seen it before and it was much better. Kelly Osborne is truly awful, theworst stunt casting Iīve ever seen. The producers should be ashamed. - Loretta | 26 Oct 07 |
| I love it. Seen it twice, but would really like to Natalie Edmunds as Velma. Does anyone know if she's going to play her again. I live in Norway, so it would be great if someone could let me know. - Liisa | 09 Oct 07 |
| It wasn't as terrible as it was last year but they still have a long way to go to save the production. It looks a bit tighter, but kelly Osborne was just awful. She can't belt and she can't hold a note so it's ridiculous that she's playing Mama. Her lack of acting skills is also quite obvious. It always annoys me when someone as talentless gets a part in a show just for being a D list celebrity. - Rob | 16 Sep 07 |
| Josefina - what a star. I thought that Ms Gabrielle stole the show as Roxie Hart and she was the only thing worthy. The audience were bored when she wasn't on stage and the cast didn't seem to be enjoying the performance. Maybe the show is past its sell by date. - Robert Morgan | 30 Jun 07 |
| Saw it last week at the Cambridge. It was very bad. The theatre wasn't full at all. Apart from Josefina Gabrielle I didn't care for anybody. Pity as this used to be such a great show. - ! | 24 Jun 07 |
| I saw CHICAGO last week for the 3rd time in London. I have seen the production in New York too. Roxie and Velma were both competent. The rest of the cast were just terrible, specially the dreadful Natalie Edmonds, and the dancing was weak, really bad in general. - lana | 30 May 07 |
| I'm really surprised at how bad this show has become over the years. Saw it 2nd May at the Cambridge. Roxy was good and Velma not great. Mama sang well. The acting was totally mechanical, like everybody is bored with the show. Not entertaining. - Rachel G | 28 May 07 |
| how dare you say all that about natalie edmunds i know her very well and think she is an amazing dancer and performer and has a great stage presence and so does arlene philips who claimes natalie is the best dancer in the west end so there!!!!1 - izzy | 27 May 07 |
| We went to see it last week and were shocked at how bad state this production is in. We used to be fans of the show but this time were exteremely disappointed. Very bad ensemble in general with the exception of Josefina Gabrielle and a couple of others. - Dale | 24 May 07 |
| I was there with a friend on Friday, and we didn't enjoyed it. It was the fourth time we'd seen it and the other times were so much better especially the cast with Anita Louise Combe and Anna Jane Casey. It looks tired, maybe it's time to close it - Rachel | 24 Apr 07 |
| I saw it last week at the Cambridge, and thought it was quite bad. Tina Arena was terrible, Annette was ok. It was pretty empty. - Ralph | 18 Apr 07 |
| I Have seen Chicago twice so fare both times with Annette McLaughlin as Velma and she was Amazing in the role, I have met her both times and she is a very nice woman who talked and signed autographs and posed for pictures, The first time i saw it was with Tony Hadley was Billy Flynn and did a very good job he too was nice, the second time was with Tina Arena who was fantastic she still has it in her. The Lovely Natalie Edmunds was not performing the second time i saw it which was a great shame as she is a delight to watch and a pleasure to talk too. I love the show i love the theatre and Will see i again and again if there is any chance someone could arrange me going backstage to meet the cast and get some pictures with them i would be very happy to hear from you scott_tidmus@hotmail.co.uk - Scott Tidmus | 17 Apr 07 |
| One word AWFUL. No atmosphere. Saw yesterday's show, half empty house. Apart from Velma, the cast is weak and the ensemble is terrible. They donīt have great bodies like previous casts and arenīt good performers. Seen it twice on Broadway and three times in West End and I'm so disappointed this time. - Brandon Russell | 25 Mar 07 |
| Saw it lasr week at the Cambridge. It was quite bad. The theatre wasn't full and it's much smaller than the Adelphi. Quite bad cast with few exceptions. Wouldn't recommend it at all with the current cast. - Ellie | 23 Mar 07 |
| thought it was great - deb | 22 Mar 07 |
| I'm surprised at how awful the current is. Saw it last Sat. Everybody was, surprisingly weak. 5 years ago was sublime. now itīs a dull show, and it wonīt improve unless they recast with good performers. Awful. - vik | 21 Mar 07 |
| We went to see it last week and were really disgusted. We were fans of the show but this time were really disappointed. Terrible ensemble. Aoife did an ok job as Roxie but nothing special. Didn't care for anyone. Quite empty house. The audience didn't seemed to enjoy it. A not very enjoyable evening. - a | 09 Mar 07 |
| I still think its great, but I agree its lost some of its pazazz - Robert | 08 Mar 07 |
| I went with a friend and we didn't enjoyed it. It was the third time we'd seen the show and the previous times were so much better -original cast and the one with Chita Rivera-. Aoife did an ok job as Roxie but is bland in parts. Amos was ok too. Didn't care for anyone else. Not a full house, strange considering that it was Saturday, but it was no more than 70% full. The audience didn't seem to enjoy it much. It wasn't a enjoyable evening, I thought. - Norma Raddle | 24 Feb 07 |
| One word AWFUL!!! There was no atmosphere. Saw Cameron Leigh as Roxie and she didn't do very well, i remember how good she was asd Huniak - quite an empty house. Can't wait to see it closing as it has deteriorated so much. All the leads are mediocre and I better don't get started on the ensemble. They used to have outstanding performers, where are they now? Seen the show three times on Broadway and four times in West End, but this time has been a nightmare. - Alan | 19 Feb 07 |
| saw Cameron Leigh Last week as Roxie she was FANTASTIC Please give her the role! - Jason | 18 Feb 07 |
| Saw it last Saturday. It was really terrible. Theatre wasn't even full, which is really bad for a Saturday. Very bad cast. Wouldn't recommend it right now. It really needs a new ensemble. - Robin Myers | 14 Feb 07 |
| cool cool cool! went with 15 people we had a wicked time. - 86.134.192.229) | 05 Feb 07 |
| I went to the Cambridge to see Chicago with my daughter, we had seen it before at the Adelphi several times. The current cast is very weak, some of the ensemble too young. Ian Kelsey is just terrible as Billy, he didn't hold the last note in We Both Reached for the Gun and his acting was awful. Annette Mclauhlin was ok although I remember her being better years ago when she did it with Sacha Distel. We were extremely disappointed this time. - 86.137.54.110) | 02 Feb 07 |
| I've seen Chicago twice in the last month, i thought it ROCKED both times, although the second show was better, as i was down in the stalls as opposed to up in the circle, I felt more involved in the show the second time. I thought Ian Kelsey was great as Billy Flynn... just cos he didnt hold the last note during 'Both reached for the gun' doesnt mean he didnt kick serious ass in the role. I think he's got a great voice, and stage presence, totally in character the whole time. Annette McLaughlain I thought was brilliant too. She didnt overdo the singing , and her voice is really suited to Velma. I'd definitely recommend it as a show, its a fun night out. I'd go and see it again... only if Ian kelsey reprises his role of Billy ;) - 193.61.253.11) | 01 Feb 07 |
| Was very dissapointed. Music is great but most performers not. There was no much atmosphere. It felt painful. Felt very let down this time. Maybe it's time for it to close. Or completely recast with competent performers getting rid of the awful ensemble and Natalie Edmonds first of all. - 86.137.54.110) | 31 Jan 07 |
| excellent show for everyone - 12.103.139.165) | 30 Jan 07 |
| Chicago should have closed last year when Evita kicked it out of the Adelphi. How can it go on like this? It's a complete and utter mess. Getting in D list celebrities can only contribute more and more to its decline, especially when they're not so talented, so the show loses credibility with every new cast. Aoife Mulholland seems ok, not so good, not so bad, but the question is would she have got the part hadn't she been on a tv reality show and the answer is of course NO. Avoid at all costs! Brenda Edwards can't act at all and the ensemble look bored most of the time. - 86.137.54.110) | 29 Jan 07 |
| I saw the show last weekend and I have to say it was the best show I have been at in a long time. Aoife Mulholland is fantastic as Roxie, along side the great Annette as Velma. The show was full of 'Razzle Dazzle' from start to finish and I would definately recommend it to everyone!Excellant!! I look forward to seeing Aoife in her future roles as I have no doubt she has a blossoming career ahead of her! - 86.43.95.60) | 28 Jan 07 |
| Aoife was fantastic. very enjoyable show. Everyone that we talked to that night enjoyed the show. would have gone back to the matinee the next day if i had the time! Aoife has a bright future ahead of her. - 86.43.95.60) | 28 Jan 07 |
| I saw it last week and it was very bad. Will not be going again for now as I didn't enjoy it at all this time. I think they should be careful when recasting as they are ruining a fantastic show. It's not worth it right, not even with one of the many offers around. - 86.137.54.110) | 22 Jan 07 |
| Sorry to hear you didnt enjoy this show as its one of my favourites and I have seen it 12 times. However, although the girl playing Roxie is rather average, I cant say I agree with the dancing by numbers by the cast members. Some of the new cast members have far more technique and personality than the last company and are far more pleasing on the eye. Im looking forward to Tony Hadley joining the cast and perking it up. Well, at least he can sing well. When are they replacing Roxie? - 86.134.192.229) | 21 Jan 07 |
| Hated the show this time. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone right now. Lacklustre cast dancing by numbers. very disappointed this time. I used to love this show and I think it deserves better. - 86.137.54.110) | 18 Jan 07 |
| I saw this show for the 4th time last week and it wasn't good. The cast were acting by numbers and didn't worked well together. Aoife was ok as Roxie but Brenda Edwards can't act. The worst was Ian Kelsey, no stage presence and an awful voice that could hold the note in Both reached for the Gun. I will not be going again for now. - 86.137.54.110) | 08 Jan 07 |
| The show has the best Velma ever at the moment Annette McLaughlin and she is worth the ticket price alone but in saying that Aoife Mulholland is pretty damn fine too! - 195.93.21.100) | 07 Jan 07 |
| Saw the show last week. Unfortunately was a let down. Some of the acting was actually quite poor. The better parts where the ones with Velma. So quite bad in general. I wouldn't recommend it right now. The band was good though. Natalie Edmunds was the worst ensemble member. Aoife lacks stage presence. - 86.137.54.110) | 01 Jan 07 |
| Aoife as Roxie lacks the professional edge that is needed for this show. Although her performance is promising is she ready for the West End stage.I felt the Cell Block girls outshine her. However velma is excellent and seems to carry the show. - 86.142.231.43) | 31 Dec 06 |
| The show is in very bad shape, really awful and not worth seeing at the moment. Ian Kelsey is as bad as Darius. Aoife is just ok, Brenda can't act. I didn't care much for the ensemble either. - 86.137.54.110) | 29 Dec 06 |
| Saw this show last night and loved it. Can't see why everyone on this page is negative. I thought the cast were fabulous and the ensemble had some great people in it.Some wonderful fosse style from the girls. - 86.142.231.43) | 28 Dec 06 |
| Bad show. Ian Kelsley was awful. Aoife was ok but you can't tell she's very inexperience. Didn't care much about the ensemble members. Natalie Edmunds is the worst of them. - 86.137.54.110) | 27 Dec 06 |
| Have seen this show 3 times now (by default rather than desire) and have to say that it has never been better with Aoife as Roxie. Brenda Edwards has improved a lot since her first performances and although I was surprisingly pleased with Bonnie Langford, I really think Aiofe has the sexiness and playfulness down to a tee. the rets of the cast were great and I think its in good shape. Aiofe's career will go from strength to strength- she is versatile and very likeable- unlike the the person who won 'Maria'- who I find quite the opposite. - 84.67.36.89) | 26 Dec 06 |
| At last I went to see Chicago for the first time in five years. I think it's in a dreadful state right now. The cast is quite bad. I don't think they're talented especially compared to the ones they had in the first 4 years of the run. - 86.137.54.110) | 20 Dec 06 |
| Natalie Edmund's performance is SENSATIONAL!!! What are all you people talking about. Obviously someone here is very jelous. Get over yourself. If you think you could do better then why aren't you on the stage doing it? heh? If she was that bad do you think she would still be in the cast? No! so give her a break, and get a life! - 172.200.3.55) | 19 Dec 06 |
| The show is in not in very good shape at the moment. Josefina Gabrielle is good but Ian Kelsey can't sing or act. The rest of the performers are not as terrible as previous ones but still there's a long way to go. Except for Natalie Edmunds, one of the worst performers I've ever seen on stage. Brenda is a good singer but her acting is laughable. - 217.44.225.77) | 04 Dec 06 |
| I went on Saturday. I took my sons but they didn't enjoy it. It wasn't worth the long journey to see it. The theatre wasn't full even on Saturday. A great show that needs reshaping and recasting. - 217.44.225.77) | 28 Nov 06 |
| natalie isnt reviewing herself,she doesnt need to justify herself to all you very sad people that have nothing better to do, you clearly dont know talent when u see it! - 86.130.195.205) | 25 Nov 06 |
| Everytime I see Chicago I seem to like it less. The current cast is so bad except for Josephina Gabrielle. OH MY GOD. The show has never been this bad and Natalie Edmunds should stop reviewing herself and tellings how wonderful she is, as she's the only one who thinks so. - 217.44.226.113) | 21 Nov 06 |
| For all you people who are attempting to slag off natalie edmund's performance i think you all need to have a good look at yourselves first,when you can dance,sing and act like the amzing natalie edmunds come and see me because i will only say this once, take it from somebody who knows what they are talking about (me) Natalie edmunds is one of the strongest in the cast if not the strongest and i think that her performance as Velma was breathtaking,so sort your heads out, get off her back and get back to your offices you sad sad people! - 86.130.182.180) | 20 Nov 06 |
| I went to see Chicago with my son, we had seen it before at the Adelphi. The current cast is weak, some of them too young. Ian Kelsey is terrible as Billy, he didn't hold the last note in the dummy number. We were very disappointed this time. - 86.137.166.102) | 19 Nov 06 |
| I've always been a fan of Chicago. I love the score and saw it 3 times when it ran at the Cambridge in the early eighties. This is the second time I have seen this production. The show is very tired, very flat and dull - except for Amra playing Velma - but she can't carry a whole show by herself. Seeing it again, I realise what a weak plot it has. Go and see Wicked or Avenue Q or The Producers instead. - 82.69.1.188) | 27 Oct 06 |
| Was so dissapointed. Music is great but the performers not. There was no atmosphere. It felt painful. Felt very let down. Maybe its time for itto close. Or completely recast getting rid of the awful Natalie Edmonds first of all. - 87.217.180.144) | 27 Oct 06 |
| Natalie Edmunds is a star! and for those of you who can't see that you seiously need to see a docter. There are very few triple threats in the west end these days and I think Natalie is the biggest one so watch what you say coz karma will come right back at you....plus for those of u who say she's full of herself you've obviously never met her, she's the funniest most down to earth and dedicated person ever...Give Natalie a break and get a life! - 195.93.21.100) | 26 Oct 06 |
| Chicago should have closed when Evita kicked it out of the Adephi. How can it go on like this? It's a complete mess. Getting in Z list celebs can only keep it going at a price, especially when they're not talented, so the show loses credibility. Ashley Simpson seems like perfect casting, but it's quite a let down. Avoid at all costs! Brenda can't act and the ensemble look bored. - 86.138.63.154) | 23 Oct 06 |
| The show was interesting! I'm a fan and have seen it many times but not recently. so I went along last weekend, 14th Oct. I wasn't sure how I felt about the show. I know I've seen hugely better casts, but then I've seen some howlers too!!! I guess this cast was somewhere inbetween. Some of the ensemble you couldn't keep your eyes off; Steven Grace, Lucy Miller, and others were quite forgetable; Dean Street etc. I also noticed that Dean is now Dance Capt. When did Vanessa leave? No wonder the show's looking a little shabby and unloved. One guy I did love was the understudy Amos who was on, Gavin Keenan. He was simply fantastic, I really enjoyed his character, and his voice was phenomenal! He really won over the audience. If you get a chance to see this guy, you will not be dissappointed, a really touching Amos. Generally an ok show, but a bit of cleaning and polishing could bring it back from the mess we see at the moment! - 80.43.56.17) | 22 Oct 06 |
| My fourth time and a big let down. It was my favourite but no longer, no atmosphere, bad performances. - 62.254.64.17) | 19 Oct 06 |
| I saw it on yesterday and it was awful. Will not be seeing it again for now. I think they will have to fully recast or just close it. It's not worth it, not even with the half price offer. - 86.144.34.220) | 19 Oct 06 |
| I saw the show on the 17th. Its not as bad as it used to be. Ashlee Simpson does look young for the part but she does pull it off. I do agree there has been better casts but this cast aint so bad. Velma is fantastic. This amos is really good. Brenda Edwards as mama morton is brillaint. Acting as improved her voice is wonderful. Billy flinn is ok. All in all its a good show. I enjoyed it. The theatre looked very full. Its doing well. I would go and see it again - 86.132.122.205) | 18 Oct 06 |
| Hated the show. wouldn't recommend it to anyone. Lacklustre cast. - 86.144.34.220) | 18 Oct 06 |
| I saw this show for the 5th time last week and it is not entertainment anymore. The cast were weak and didn't worked well together. Ashley Simpson was awful as Roxie, Brenda Edwards can't act. The worst was Ian Kelsey as Billy - he has no stage presence and an awful voice. I will not be going again for now!! - 86.144.34.220) | 11 Oct 06 |
| We went to see it on September 20th and were totally horrified. We used to like the show so much but this time were in shock at how terrible it was. Linzi Hately was fine. Ian Kelsey was a weird and awful Billy Flynn. Very bad ensemble with a couple of exceptions. - 86.139.18.120) | 25 Sep 06 |
| Saw the show last night, (my first West End Musical/theatre performance) Unfortunately was a little let down. Some of the individual acting/scenes where under par imo. The better parts where when the majority of the cast where all out in one go - big music, lots happening. (but perhaps put this down to sensory overload). So - only ok. I wouldnt recommend it to my mates. The band/music was pretty good tho! .. and Natalie Edmunds - yum - 217.33.200.46) | 22 Sep 06 |
| Went to see show last week with my cousin, what a load of rubbish. I dont think the cast member has any right to award the show 5 stars, its up to the punters to do that. Ian Kelsey not up to the role, can't sing. Brenda great vocals. Blondle girl as Velma great but ms Hately? as Roxy didnt convince me, though had an ok voice. Amos boring performance. Overall the backing cast are great looking and great dancers but it doesn't gel together and just seems dull, we were glad when it finished. We saw Footloose the night before, was a fun evening, better value. - 62.254.64.17) | 12 Sep 06 |
| The show is really awful & not worth seeing at the moment. Ian kelsey is as bad if not worst than darius danesh. - 86.139.18.120) | 12 Sep 06 |
| Worst performance I've seen, Ian Kelsey very bad as Billy, Linzi wrong for Roxy. Amra still great as Velma but she cant carry the whole show on her own. Brenda has a great voice. Came out of the theatre feeling very flat (Friday 8 Sept), my mum fell asleep thats how terrible it was, we used to love it so much, show has lost its sparkle. Mike Denman is a fantastic dancer. - 62.254.64.17) | 10 Sep 06 |
| What's state is Chicago in? Ill. Terrible show. Ian Kelsley was very bad. Natalie Edmunds is the worst performer ever seen in the West End. How she got a part in a major show is everyone's guess. - 86.138.63.73) | 09 Sep 06 |
| Natalie Edmunds is so full of herself, and her Velma is awful. The rest of the cast are ok except for Mama who can't act and Billy who cant sing or act - 86.138.63.73) | 04 Sep 06 |
| At last someone from the show has spoken out. I think it's dreadfull the way everyone in the cast is being rubbished. I think they're all talented. after all they wouldn't be there if they weren't. Do you think it's someone who's left & is jealous!!!! My favourite Roxie was in fact an understudy, Cameron Leigh, now that girl has talent - 212.100.250.209) | 04 Sep 06 |
| I think you are ridiculous to say something like that. Natalie Edmunds has not played Velma in over 3 months and everyone i've spoken to thinks the same thing which is that she was outstanding. She is such a lovely girl too. I'm in the current cast at the moment and couldn't sit quietly any longer listening to this rubbish being written. These are human beings trying to do there job and nasty people like you with no constructive criticism should find better ways to spend your time than obsessing over someone else's life!! - 82.10.32.141) | 04 Sep 06 |
| The show is in not very shape at the moment. Linzi Hately is fine but Ian Kelsey can't sing let alone act. The rest of the cast are not as bad as previous ones but still there's a long way to go. And natalie Rdmunds is one of the worst Velmas I've ever seen. - 86.138.63.73) | 04 Sep 06 |
| I went to the matinee on Saturday. I took my sons. I wasn't sure if they would like it but they didn't enjoy it. Cameron Leigh was weak in her acting as Roxie, good dancer but she is better as Hunyak. It wasn't worth the long journey to see this. The theatre wasn't full which is strange for a Saturday. A great show that needs reshaping and recasting. Brenda sings well but can't act. Julian Simms is not very good as Amos. - 86.138.63.73) | 28 Aug 06 |
| Well I caught the matinee performance of Chicago yesterday. I wanted to see it again to see what shape its in, and as Linzi Hateley has just taken on the lead role it was perfrect timing. I last saw it in 2004 with Jennifer ellison and I thought it was in awful shape. I was one of many saying it had had its day. Just my luck Linzi Hateley was off and I had her understudy. Cameron Leigh. She was brilliant, brought a lot of humour to the role and great voice. In no way was she a disappointment. Anna Faye Wright was Velma, I saw her in the UK tour a while back, she is one of the best Velmas out there. Gives a cracking performance, smooth dancer and great humour. The two of them worked well together. Brenda Edwards as Mama Mortan rocked, thought she was brilliant, belted out her songs, acted well - she has real potential to be a west end star. Hope to extends her contract again. Ian Kelsey was pretty good, better than I thought. Good voice and acting. They only weak link i thought was Julian Sims, he wasnt bad, but just found he didnt have much stage presence, I know Amos is menat to be a weak timid character but thought maybe a bit more energy could have gone into the performance. When he runs (or kinda walks he his case) shout he is the dad of roxies baby, he hardly seemed enthused at all! The ensemble - wow! At last they have got a tight and sexy ensemble. All dance moves were slick and sexy, as they should be. All the dancers are fit and gorgeous, again as they should be for this role. Special mentions to Tobias Walborn who oozed sexuality and charisma as Fred Casely and is a wicked dancer. Although to be honest they are all great. Chicago has got its act together and is in amazing shape. Its as tight and smooth as the dancers bodies and deserves its place in the west end. I recommend people rush to see it now. Two downsides - 1 - hated the Cambridge theatre, really ugly inside, felt like I was sitting in a black cave. 2 - I felt SO fat on leaving the theatre having watched the beautiful people on stage!! especially havign seen footloose the night before - not two shows to see to boost your ego! lol - 86.138.200.168) | 27 Aug 06 |
| Everytime I see Chicago I seem to get the Understudies!! Well last Month I had the misfortune of seeing the Velma Cover AND the Billy Flynn cover Mike Denman. OH MY GOD. I am the most forgiving person ever and I get really imbarrased for people, but, they were awful. The Billy cover was about 5 foot and HAHA when the girls stand infront with the feathers he disappeared HAHAHA. (Plus they have a girl that is about 6 foot 4, she looks a bit out of place next to the other shorties, but she is stunning, legs for days) His singing was totally out of tune for the first number, he recovered a little for 'Reach for the Gun' but pretty bad. His accent was a basically Northern English, I'm guessing he's from Leeds or somewhere. THEN, we had Velma, Djlenga Scott, I wanted to cry, she did this staccato thing where she'd sing quiet then loud, and she had no personallity at all, speaking in monotone, she was a log on stage, it was imbarrasing, and people were commenting on how bad she was on the way out. - 86.138.63.73) | 25 Aug 06 |
| How tacky it was ! I've never seen such a poor show. It's a rubbish. - 61.25.42.151) | 23 Aug 06 |
| I went to see Chicago with my daughter, we had seen it before last year at the Adelphi. Jennifer Ellison was weak, wrong for the part, too young. Ian Kelsey was terrible as Billy, he didn't hold the last note in BRFTG, his singing voice is not very strong and his acting wooden. The rest of the cast nothing special, and Brenda could do with a few acting lessons, good singing voice though. We were both disappointed this time. - 86.138.63.73) | 18 Aug 06 |
| Sounds like the same person moaning! Mona! Now it's Cameron & Natalie's turn. Leave the girls alone they wouln't be there if they weren't talented. Great show - 83.138.189.75) | 14 Aug 06 |
| Was extremely dissapointed. Music is great but the performers let it down. There was no atmosphere either. It felt painful to watch. I was very let down. Maybe its time for the show to close! Or completely recast. Cameron Leigh was on as Roxie and she was awful. She was good as Huniak but obviously she doesn't have what it takes for a leading role. - 86.138.63.73) | 12 Aug 06 |
| I thought the show was fantastic. The ensemble were amazing and it was great to see Brenda Edwards after seeing her on TV. What strikes me is how some people can right such negative reviews, your going out for a nice evening to the theatre, enjoy yourselves come on, and how the hell can "pq" or who ever you are, - get a proper name, say that Natalie Edmunds is fat! she is anything but fat! obviously someone here is rather jelous. You need to get over yourself and join a gym! - 172.214.120.73) | 12 Aug 06 |
| This show should have closed when Evita kicked it out of the Adephi. How much longer can it go on like this? The whole thing is a mess. Getting in semi-celebs for the lead roles can only keep it going for so long, especially when they're only semi-talented. Jennifer Ellison seems like a piece of perfect casting, but what a let down! Avoid at all costs! - 84.69.246.99) | 06 Aug 06 |
| Saw it on Monday and thought it was quite bad. The theatre was quite empty and there was no atmosphere . This show has really lost its spark in the last two years. Bad ensemble specially Natalie Edmunds, and she's so fat now!! - 86.138.63.73) | 04 Aug 06 |
| Saw the musical on Monday and was really impressed. Very good performance, dancers, singers and actresses. But I was a bit surprised that it was nearly the same like the movie. Especially liked Natalie Edmunds, but the rest of the Ensemble was brilliant, too. I wished I could see it again. - 84.128.217.122) | 03 Aug 06 |
| I don't understand some reviews here being so good - I saw it on Friday and it was awful. Will not be seeing it again any time soon. - 86.138.63.73) | 24 Jul 06 |
| Speechless. Went to see the show last night and it was utterly disgusted! I thought everybody was awful. - 82.138.209.34) | 18 Jul 06 |
| Loved the show Highly recommend it - 80.5.160.9) | 18 Jul 06 |
| I saw this show for the 4th time on friday matinee, and it is not entertainment anymore. All the cast were weak and didn't worked well together. Bonnie was ok as Roxie, AFW was fine as Velma, but Brenda Edwards can't actthe part of Mama. The worst was Darius as Billy Flynn - he has no stage presence and a terrible voice. I will not be going again!! - 82.138.209.34) | 11 Jul 06 |
| We went to see it on July 8th and were horrified. We used to like the show but this time were in shock at how it was. Bonnie Landford was fine. Darius was a weird and robotic Billy Flynn. Very bad ensemble with few exceptions. - 82.138.209.34) | 11 Jul 06 |
| I went to the Friday Matinee. I have never been a fan of Bonnie Langord, but someone said she was extremely talented, so I was interested to see how she performed. I feel she gave a better performance than Sally-Ann Triplett in the role overall. She was sassy, had a good voice if not very powerful, and moved well on stage. She is tiny, and perhaps was slightly less impressive as a dancer than Sally-Ann. The lady playing Velma, was good in the role, but in my opinion, although she is certainly very athletic and agile, she just plain isn't sexy enough for the role. Darius was terrific. His voice was strong and silky, and I have to laugh when others who report on here, say he couldn't make certain notes :O) He has a massive range, nowhere near tested by any number in the show. It makes you wonder sometimes, if the people knocking him in this role, wish they had someone in a West End show that they could support. Maybe their favourite could play Mary Sunshine LOL:O) Incidentally, the chap playing Mary this time, was a lot more believable as a lady than the original one I have seen, though I don't know his name. Brenda was good in the role, but I can agree there were some timing issues with her delivery of lines. Her voice is fantastic however, and the few numbers here never gave her a real chance to show her range or real power. She is so much slimmer than I remember on tv, and an extremely pretty and very sexy lady in person! Victor was ok this time, but I can agree with the earlier comment, that he did seem to be somewhat going through the motions. He seems like a nice enough guy, but seeing him arrive to the stage door, you could be forgiven if you accidently tried to purchase a Big Issue from him :O) The house was 2/3rds full for the matinee, and there was quite a bit of laughter in the theatre, though I am sure it would have been better if the house was full. Some of the jokes are a little too subtle, and could be played upon a little more, but for anyone with a little intelligence, this was a funny and entertaining show, with plenty to keep you amused. - 194.74.54.45) | 11 Jul 06 |
| Saw an excellent show on 8th July playing to a full house. Bonnie Langford was excellent as Roxie, Darius Danesh played Billy Flynn with such flair and fantastic vocals, such a shame it was their last night in the show. The rest of the cast did very well, Amra Faye Wright especially. Ignore the haters, this show is good with strong leads such as these three. - 83.67.34.90) | 11 Jul 06 |
| It seems someone has copied yet the same review! How many times have we heard that Bonnie and Darius are great? Still reckon the same person is writing all this rubbish. The show is awful & not worth seeing at the moment. - 86.133.165.17) | 11 Jul 06 |
| Went to see the Chicago on Saturday evening,what a great vibrant show, I enjoyed all the performances, especially Brenda,Bonnie and the lovely Darius, they certainly deserve their places on the West End stage. The theatre was full and everybody seemed to enjoy the show.I will definately go to see this again. Brilliant.Well done. - 84.64.193.19) | 10 Jul 06 |
| Awful show. Darius Danesh was especially bad. Won't be seeing it again. Natalie Edmunds is the worst ensemble member ever seen in the West End. How she got a part in a West End show is everyone's guess. - 86.133.165.17) | 09 Jul 06 |
| I find it very very funny that XTEPHEN hu ever that is can say that Natalie Edmunds is full of herself,how wud u no this if u didnt know her?i think natalie edmunds is the most breathtaking dancer/perfromer i have seen,people need to stop being so bitchy about this hirl,shes fantastic,stop being the green eyed monster,shes fantastic,and i know alot of people who will agree with me!jelousy isnt good im afraid get over it!c - 81.156.101.248) | 09 Jul 06 |
| A terrible show! One of the worst I've seen in the West End. Only thing that saved it for me was Bonnie Langford. She can dance and sing, and looked so great on stage. The musical numbers were done boringly and nobody had any energy. Darius Danesh is awful and acts by numbers, just memorising his lines and delivering them without knowing how to project his voice. His vocals were embarrasing. - 86.133.165.17) | 06 Jul 06 |
| enjoyed the whole show,and we will definitely return.Bonnie langford,as ever a pro!,and her character, roxy, could not have found a better home!also was very impressed with the stunning Darius,and his lovely rich vocals!His portrayal of Billy Flynn was performed with sophisticated ease,and he's a dead ringer for Clark Gable! - 212.219.250.3) | 05 Jul 06 |
| The good reviews are all the same. The show is really bad at the moment. Bonnie is fine but Darius can't sing let alone act. - 82.138.209.34) | 04 Jul 06 |
| I went to the matinee on Saturday (1st July) I took my sons I wasn't sure if they would like it but they loved it I felt they all put effort into it Bonnie was good Darius was great he did hit all the notes and wasn't at all wooden I'm not saying I'm an expert but it was well worth the long journey to see this. I just wish I lived closer as I would definitely go again. The theatre wasn't full but not far off and the cheers at the end said it all. A great show. - 80.5.160.9) | 04 Jul 06 |
| There's a sad person posting. Compare 5 stars reviews. Some virtually identical, including mis-spellings. Hmmmmm. I smell a rat. I'm just saying read these reviews with a large heap of salt. - 86.133.165.17) | 30 Jun 06 |
| Went with my mum to see Chicago on Saturday. We had seen it once before at the Adelphi, and enjoyed it then, but I thought this cast was much better.Have never really liked Bonnie, but must say I thought she was great in the part of Roxie.Very impressed with Brenda as Mama Morton, much better than the previous one we saw and Darius was excellent as Billy Flynn despite being ill and almost losing his voice. Would never have known anything was the matter. A true professional. A great night out. - 88.105.140.160) | 29 Jun 06 |
| I saw Chicago for the third time last week. It was just awful. Brenda was terrible. She has a good voice but can't act. Natalie Edmunds is so dreadful and full of herself. The other girls were watchable in Cell Block Tango. Everything else was boring and Darius has to be the worst Billy Flynn ever, can't act and struggled with the songs from beginning to end. - 86.133.165.17) | 29 Jun 06 |
| I went to see Chicago last saturday with my daughter, we had seen it once before last year at the Adelphi. Bonnie Langford was fantastic - I did have a pre conceived idea that she would be rubbish - how wrong was I. I also feel I should comment on the performance of Darius Danesh, pulled Billy Flyn off perfectly, I did wonder if he would be too young for the part but any concerns were unfounded. On the way home I came across people waiting at the stage door waiting to see the cast, apparantly Darius Danesh was suffering with some sort of flu virus and was loosing his voice - I honestly would not of know this by his performance. The rest of the cast should also get a mention, I did feel that Brenda whoever could do with a few acting lessons but overall the show was fantastic. - 62.254.64.17) | 29 Jun 06 |
| In the past I've been mystified by the negative reviews for this, having seen and loved it many times at the Adelphi. Now, however,I'm beginning to see the naysayer's point(s): first the positives: Bonnie Langford is an entrancing Roxie....every aspect of the role works in her capable hands. A true pro, she is by turns flirtatious, ruthless, charming, sexy, cruel....well sung and magnificently well danced....a real star. Also,the smaller theatre allows individuals in the well drilled ensemble to genuinely shine through (Natalie Edmunds and Cristian Valle are a pleasure to watch). HOWEVER, the show looks cramped at the Cambridge (the dancers look forever in danger of bumping into the false prosc) and the other leads range from lacklustre to appalling. Victor McGuire and Amra-Faye wright are both capable performers but really look like they can't be bothered (Wright is sinewy and agile but totally graceless)while the "acting" of Darius Danesh and Brenda Edwards would disgrace a school play. At least she sings well, despite having a total inability to deliver a line. If only his talent matched his apparent smugness. Not only is he too young for the role, but he ust can't act and his voice soundds quite ropey live. This Godawful pair have no place on a West End stage. The mind boggles at how this show will look when Bonnie leaves and the miniscually talented Jennifer Ellison takes over. Maybe this should have closed on the Strand. Sad to see a once great show reduced to this...and here's hoping Bonnie Langford gets another West End lead soon. - 195.82.123.181) | 29 Jun 06 |
| Was expecting more from the show. Was extremely dissapointed. Music and singing not loud enough and was never really moving or effective. I have a thing for harmonies and the few that are in the show were completely down played. There was no fun feeling. It felt incredibly painful to watch. I was very let down. Maybe its time for the show to close! - 84.69.218.230) | 27 Jun 06 |
| this is the 5th time I have seen Chicago in the West End and I think the show has gone downhill. Bonnie was decent but Darius, come on, he's just awful, can't reach the top note in Reach for the Gun and sang off key most of the time. Brenda sings well but her acting skills are non existant. For a Saturday, the theatre wasn't that busy. - 86.139.22.248) | 27 Jun 06 |
| Went to see Chicago for the second time on Saturday, and enjoyed it even more than last time. I thought Bonnie was great as Roxi,especially her facial expressions. Brenda was a good Mama Morton,very powerful voice, and Darius was brilliant as Billy Flynn.He has a fantastic voice which just seems to get better.The whole show was a delight, and is well worth a visit.Am a bit surprised by some of the negative comments.I wonder if they were watching the same show. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves on Saturday if the cheers and applause were anything to go by, and the theatre was full. - 88.105.132.145) | 26 Jun 06 |
| Saw it on June 23rd and thought Bonnie was an ok Roxy. The theatre was quite empty and there wasn't much of an atmosphere . This show has really lost its magic in the last couple of years. Darius was awful and sounded as if he was losing his voice, strugglrd big time wit Gun. - 86.139.22.248) | 24 Jun 06 |
| I saw the show again on the 23rd in the evening and was very impressed by all the cast. Great show and an excellent evening's entertainment. Bonnie Langford was very good as Roxie, the role suited her well. Darius Danesh really excelled as Billy Flynn, wonderful voice and acting, I was impressed by his stage presence. The new Mama Morton had a powerful voice, and of course Amra Faye Wright lives and breathes the part of Velma now. All in all an excellent show to see when in the West End and the full house certainly enjoyed themselves. Highly recommended for all. It's really sad how some people criticise a show which they blatantly haven't watched by posting a bad review for the 24th when the matinee performance for that day hadn't even ended ! - 82.10.35.206) | 24 Jun 06 |
| I don't understand some reviews on here being so good - I saw it on Saturday and it was awful. Bonnie Langford wasn't toobad but everybody else was. Darius Danesh, who plays Billy Flynn, is the worst choice. He's bland in the role, not funny and can't sing or act. Will not see it again any time soon. - 86.139.22.248) | 24 Jun 06 |
| Speechless. Went to see the show last night and it was utterly disgusted! I thought Bonnie Langford completely blew the show, she was just boring! Squeaky voice, terrible dancing, she had the whole package! Really, I don't know what they were thinking when they said it was good, it was awful and half-empty. But the worst was of course Darius, no stage presence, terrible acting and even his singing is not that good. - 86.139.22.248) | 23 Jun 06 |
| Went to see Chicago at the Cambridge last Saturday 17 June, the new cast have settled in very well Bonnie was good as Roxy and Brenda excellent as mama, the star of the show was Darius Danesh who has just come back from LA for a 3 week run as Billy he has an excellent voice and stands out on the stage, I will definately go again soon also well done to all the dancers they work very hard. - 84.67.182.130) | 23 Jun 06 |
| I saw this show for the 5th time on Saturday,17/6, and it is still a wonderful evening's entertainment. All the cast were excellent and worked well together. Bonnie was lovely as Roxie, AFW was brilliant as Velma, as always, and Brenda Edwards has a really powerful voice and suits the part of Mama. The star of the show is Darius as Billy Flynn - he has such tremendous stage presence and an amazing voice. The part of Billy Flynn was made for him!! All in all a must-see show - I will definitely be going again!! - 84.68.125.233) | 23 Jun 06 |
| We went to see it on Saturday and were horrified. We used to like the show but this time were in shock at how it was. Bonnie Landford was fine. Darius was a weird and robotic Billy Flynn. Very bad ensemble with tow or maybe three exceptions. - 86.139.22.248) | 23 Jun 06 |
| I am not sure what show (no way out) as they signed themselves was watching, one thing for certain it wasnt Chicago. Having looked at the history of reviews it is obvious that there is a certain element who are deliberately posting negative comments and the critism isnt even contructive. For what reason, they havent anything better to do. I have seen the show, yes I have seen the show and the last time was on Saturday evening 17th June. As always I was not dissapointed, Bonnie was brilliant playing Roxy adding her own querky comedy to the role, Brenda Edwards playing Mama was very well cast and her voice is amazing. Darius Danesh as Billy Flynn was also good and gave a credible performance, as did the rest of the cast. My sister was with me seeing it for the first time and she absolutely loved it. Well Done everyone, I look forward to seeing it again. Oh and by the way, the theatre wasnt empty on Saturday, it was packed and the cast received outstanding applause, whistles and shouts of approval. Wonderful. - 62.64.202.49) | 22 Jun 06 |
| Warning to people who are planning seeing Chicago - 99% of the good reviews are written by the same deranged person, a weirdo obessesed with some of the performers. Same kind of remarks all the time. This show used to be great but casting is killing it. How else would you explain half empty houses on Saturday nights? - 86.139.22.248) | 20 Jun 06 |
| Well Harry seems you've copied other people's review! How many times have we heard the show is tired & boring. Still reckon the same person is writing all this rubbish. The show is great & worth seeing - 83.138.136.91) | 20 Jun 06 |
| I saw it last week at the Cambridge, and thought it was very bad. Bonnie was ok, Amra was good. Everybody else was weak. The audience seemed bored and it wasn't even half full. The terrible ensemble doesn't help. Total recast please. - 86.139.22.248) | 20 Jun 06 |
| Excellent show on Saturday, The new Billy Flynn was especially good. Worth seeing again. - 83.67.34.90) | 19 Jun 06 |
| One word terrible! What an night. Saw Saturday's show in a very empty house. At the moment the show is bad and looks tired. - 82.138.209.34) | 13 Jun 06 |
| A brilliant show! One of the best i've seen in the west end. Only thing that ruined it for me was Bonnie Langford. She can dance and sing, but just looked so old and out of place on stage. The msuical numbers were great and everyone had so much energy even in the sweltering heat. - 195.92.35.134) | 13 Jun 06 |
| I totally agree with comments about the positive reviews. Obviously these reviews are very suspicious!! Definitely same person. Saw the show this Saturday and horrified. Have seen the film and current cast on Broadway and was very ashamed of our West End guys. The leads are ok but the ensemble not. Anybody who knows Bob Fosse's work would feel the same. It's disappointing to read these reviews just being patriotic and supportive and slagging off Billy Flynn for being Italian. I suggest whoever it is to get lost!!! It's not worth the money. - 86.139.22.248) | 11 Jun 06 |
| Please will someone check out these e-mail addresses. I have commented before, only when I've seen the show & look now to see what is going on. The bad reviews are all the same too So lets give these artists a chance & stop being bitchy. The Understudays are going through it now. Cameron is fine - 212.100.250.218) | 11 Jun 06 |
| I was thinking the very same thing. A lot of the 5 stars reviews are the same! Very suspicious. It used to be a great show but it's not very entertaining anymore. The cast look bored. I saw it last week with Cameron Leigh as Roxie she was terrible. - 86.139.22.248) | 10 Jun 06 |
| Yes, see what you mean about a sad person posting/slagging off. Compare 5 stars reviews. Some virtually identical, including mis-spellings. Hmmmmm. I smell a rat. I'm just saying read these reviews with a large heap of salt. - 86.139.22.248) | 10 Jun 06 |
| I saw CHICAGO last week for the 3rd time in London. I have seen it in other countries. I have to say that Natalie Edmunds was the worst Velma I've ever seen. She is a very incompetent performer. The rest of the cast were also bad. Brenda Edwards was terrible as Mama, can't act. Bonnie Langford was so so, the rest of the company quite bad. Billy Flynn was difficult to understand. A bland evening. - 86.139.22.248) | 10 Jun 06 |
| Hey! I saw chicago for only the second time last week. It was just fantastic. Brenda was good. she has a great voice and has the perfect attitude for the part. Jenny Gayner was good as Hunyak. But an amazing performance has to go to Velma Kelly, who was payed by the 2nd understudy Natalie Edmunds. Theres only one word that sums up her performance - SENSATIONAL! Boy that girl can definately sing and dance. Man she should be on Broadway. Forget 2nd understudy, she should be Velma Kelly all the time. - 172.142.26.192) | 09 Jun 06 |
| Yeah i agree with you, who ever is writing these negative comments is obviously very bitter, and they all sound like they're coming from the same person. If i were them i would be very careful, they're treading on very thin ground. Look before you type the reviews it says (Whatsonstage.com is aware of some abuse of this section of the site. We are monitoring the situation closely and collecting IP addresses to identify repeat offenders. Multiple postings from the same source may be removed.) You have been warned! - 172.142.26.192) | 09 Jun 06 |
| really cant understand what ppl r talkin about?whats with the bad reviews,it was awesome,natalie edmunds the worst velma kelly??no she wasn't she's the best velma kelly ive seen so far!this must be just where the jelousy kicks in! - 81.156.101.107) | 09 Jun 06 |
| I saw CHICAGO last week for the 3rd time in London. I have seen the production in other cities. I have to say that Natalie Edmunds was awful as Velma. She is an incompetent performer. Doesn't look good either. The rest of the cast were bad as well. Brenda Edwards was very bad as Mama Morton, good voice but her acting is wooden. Bonnie Langford was ok, the rest of the company quite bad. Billy Flynn was difficult to understand. A dreadful evening. - 86.139.22.248) | 06 Jun 06 |
| this is the 8th time i have seen chicago in the west end and i think that Natalie edmunds was the most phenominal velma kelly,what a dancer,what a singer, can't fault her at all,all you people who sais she was robotic etc,you really don't know what your talking about,id make sure i was there for every performance she does,she should be given the role opf velma kelly permanantly!well done natalie!absolutely fantastic performance,you showed them all what talent is! - 86.130.184.227) | 05 Jun 06 |
| I'm really surprised at how good some reviews are. Saw it 3rd June at the Cambridge and it was awful. Didn't like cameron Leigh as Roxie. - 82.138.209.34) | 05 Jun 06 |
| Saw 3rd June and thought Cameron Leigh was a very weak understudy for Roxy. The theatre was quite empty and the atmosphere non existant. This show has really gone down hill in the last couple of years. - 86.139.22.248) | 04 Jun 06 |
| Saw the show last Thursday 1 June, Loved every minute of it! Bonnie and Amra were both fantastic, maybe looked a bit old compared to the stunning cast. Saw it last year but think it has improved. - 62.254.64.17) | 04 Jun 06 |
| I don't understand some of the reviews on here being so good - I saw it on June 3rd and it was awful. Bonnie Langford wasn't performing and her understudy was quite dull. Luca Barbareschi, who plays Billy Flynn, is an odd choice. He's funny in the role, but not brilliant. Would see it afain any time soon. - 86.139.22.248) | 04 Jun 06 |
| *Speechless* Went to see the show last night and it was utterly AMAZING! I thought Bonnie Langford completely stole the show, as if she owned it, she was just amazing! Amazing voice, amazing dancing, she had the whole package! Really, i don't know what they were thinking when they said it was boring, awful or half-empty... - 82.43.81.33) | 03 Jun 06 |
| Perhaps this show is about to improve Ive heard the great Daius Danesh is coming back to play the part of Billy Flynn cant wait - 80.5.160.9) | 03 Jun 06 |
| I only logged on to this web site by chance having seen this show & Guys & Dolls. You don'tget this bitching with their reviews. Please give the show a chance it's very entertaining - 83.138.136.92) | 03 Jun 06 |
| We went to see it on Monday and were shocked. We used to like the show but this time were horrified. Bonnie Landford was ok. Luca Barbareschi was a weird Billy Flynn, with strong accent, but he's funny . Quite bad ensemble with a couple of exceptions. Natalie Edmunds is the worst Velma ever. - 86.139.22.248) | 02 Jun 06 |
| likewise the bad reviews! More of them - 83.138.136.92) | 02 Jun 06 |
| Warning to people who are considering seeing Chicago - 95% of the good reviews are written by one deranged person, a fan of the show who harasses the cast in stage door. Same kind of sentences, always saying how great everybody is. It is a fantastic show but not with the current cast. I saw it on Monday at the Cambridge and Bonnie Langford was fine. Brenda has powerful voice but can't act. Luca Barbareschi was ok as Billy Flynn. Everybody else I couldnt care less. Specially bad was Velma, played by understudy Natalie Edmunds. She dances like robot, sings in screeches and can't act. - 86.139.22.248) | 02 Jun 06 |
| I went with a friend on last week, and we didn't enjoyed it much. It was the fifth time I'd seen the show and the other times were great. Bonnie did an ok job as Roxie. And also Luca Barbareschi as Billy. Didn't like anyone else. Not very busy, about half or maybe less. The audience didn't seem to be having a good time. These days the show is looking really tired. The Upper Circle is awful at the Cambridge, very steep, not good for people who have issues with highs. The rude woman at the bar tried to tip us off by giving us the wrong change. We had to complain and threaten to go to the manager to get our money back. We moved to the Dress Circle for the second half. It was a bit better but over all it was quite a bad night in general. - 86.139.22.248) | 28 May 06 |
| I saw it last week, at the Cambridge, and thought it was terribly bad. Bonnie was ok, Amra was better. The audience was bored and it was only like half full. Luca Barbareschi was fine as Billy Flynn but the dreadful ensemble should be sacked. - 86.137.49.66) | 23 May 06 |
| Totally agree with David. The last one is once again repetitive.Who's been fired!!!! - 83.138.189.76) | 22 May 06 |
| One word awful! What a terrible night. Saw Friday's show in a very empty house. At the moment the show is dreadful and looks really tired. - 82.138.209.34) | 22 May 06 |
| Bonnie - just adequate. Saw Chicago and thought that Ms Langford disappoints as Roxie Hart. The audience were very bored and the supporting cast seemed to be really sleepwalking through the performance. Amra-Faye Wright was fine. Brenda Edwards sang Mama's songs well, but lacked charisma and can't act. Luca Barbareschi was ok as Billy Flynn but his accent made some of the dialogue difficult to understand. - 86.137.49.66) | 22 May 06 |
| I totally agree with the comments about the negative reviews. Obviously every show will receive criticism but these reviews are very ominous!! Definitely one bitter person. Saw the show this Saturday and was blown away. Have seen the film before and current cast on Broadway and have to say was very proud of our West End guys. There were alot of swings on though. The leads are wonderful and the ensemble sizzle. Anybody who knows Bob Fosse's work knows that his stars were always the ensemble. Not only are they wonderful dancers and Actors but they create every scene on the stage - very talented performers. It's very disappointing to read these criticism's about the ensemble as a director i thought they were excellent and being British am very patriotic and supportive of our guys. I suggest whoever it is with this massive ego and thinks they are this year's critic get over themselves and appreciate an excellent show!!! I thoroughly recommend everyone to see this cast. Well worth the money. - 82.10.32.19) | 22 May 06 |
| Saw it Saturday 13th at the Cambridge. It was terribly bad. The theatre wasn't even full. Cameron Leigh was quite bad as Roxie. Somehow the Cambridge looks like the wrong theatre for this show which looked great at the Adelphi. The current cast is totally unimpressive. - 86.137.49.66) | 20 May 06 |
| I was Thinking the very same thing. Alot of the reviews are the same! Very suspicious. It's a great show very entertaining. The Cast give it their all. I saw it last Sat 13th with Cameron Leigh as Roxie she was excellent. - 83.138.189.75) | 20 May 06 |
| Yes, see what you mean about jaded possible ex-cast member posting/slagging off. Compare "Mel"'s review of 16th May with "Matt"'s of 6th May. Virtually identical, including mis-spelling of Langford (Landford) and calling Luca's Billy 'strange'. Hmmmmm. I smell a rat. Lots of letters of the alphabet too. Some posted by "D", "E" etc. It's not bloody Sesame Street. I'm just saying read these reviews with a large heap of salt. - 212.44.18.73) | 20 May 06 |
| I saw CHICAGO last week for the 2nd time in London. I have seen the production in other countries. I have to say that Amra-Faye Wright was a fine Velma. She is a competent performer. Looks good too. The rest of the cast were awful. Brenda Edwards was terrible as Mama Morton, good voice but can't act. Bonnie Langford was weak, the rest of the company really bad. Billy Flynn was truly difficult to understand. A boring evening. Mr Kewitt - 86.137.49.66) | 19 May 06 |
| I'm really surprised at some reviews are. Saw it 13th May at the Cambridge. Bonnie was off and Cameron Leigh was terrible as Roxy, totally boring and acting by numbers, like a robot. Amra-Faye Wright has played Velma a lot and was good. Brenda Edwards had a strong voice, however her acting is wooden and again robotic. The choice of Luca Barbareschi as Billy was weird. He has stage presence but his accent is strong, he was much better than Darius though. All in all a boring night. The chorus girls were weak and the boys are awful and canīt do the Fosse style. - 81.202.245.94) | 17 May 06 |
| Saw 13th May too & thought Cameron Leigh was a very good understudy for Roxy. Velma good too - 83.138.189.76) | 17 May 06 |
| I don't understand why some of the reviews on here are so bad - I saw it on 13th May and it was brilliant. Bonnie Langford wasn't performing that night, but her understudy was more than adequate. Amra-Faye Wright is simply magnificent in the role of Velma, if you're seeing the show it's worth making sure she is performing that night. I agree with others that Luca, who plays Bily Flynn, is a bit of an odd choice. He's adequate in the role, but not spectacular. Would love to see it again with a different cast to compare! - 62.255.32.15) | 16 May 06 |
| We went to see it on May 15th and were shocked. We used to be fans of the show but this time were very disappointed. Bonnie Landford was fine. Luca Barbareschi was a strange Billy Flynn, with strong Italian accent, heīs funny at times though. Very bad ensemble in general. - 81.202.245.94) | 16 May 06 |
| Warning to people reading these reviews who are considering seeing Chicago - 90% of the bad reviews are written by one bitter person (ex-cast member?) Same short sentences, always saying Theatre was half empty and the ensemble are bad...well, it is a fantastic show and the audience are always deliriously appreciative at the end. I saw the last performance at the Adelphi and Bonnie Langford was surprisingly fabulous (met her at the stage door afterwards and she is incredibly friendly). Brenda has an amazingly powerful voice and can act too! My one negative is Luca as Billy Flyn - he was awful. - 213.235.6.34) | 16 May 06 |
| I was there with a friend on Friday 12th, and we didn't enjoyed it. It was the fourth time I'd seen the show and the previous times were great. Bonnie did a fine job, just, as Roxie. Luca Barbareschi was ok as Billy. Didn't like anyone else. Not a busy house, about 50%. The audience didn'tseem to enjoy it much. Itīs looking really tired. - 81.41.203.106) | 15 May 06 |
| I saw it this week, at the Cambridge, and thought it was very bad. Bonnie was weak, much better was Amra and the audience (pretty empty) were hating it. Luca Barbareschi was funny as Billy Flynn but the awful ensemble did not quite do it for me. - 84.121.84.20) | 13 May 06 |
| One word TERRIBLE! What a dreadful night. Saw yesterday's show in a half empty house. Apart from Amra Faye Wright and Luca Barbareschi the cast is weak and the ensemble awful. They arenīt good performers. Seen the show before and loved it. I'm very disappointed this time. - 81.41.202.94) | 10 May 06 |
| Bonnie - what a star. Just got back from watching Chicago and thought that Ms Langford stole the show as Roxie Hart!! The audience were very lively and the cast seemed to be really enjoying the performance. Amra-Faye Wright was also great. Brenda Edwards sang Mama's songs really well, but lacked the sexual innuendo in her delivery. The only weakness in the cast was Luca Barbareschi who failed to 'razzle dazzle' as Billy Flynn. His accent made some of the dialogue quite difficult to understand. - 80.3.64.12) | 10 May 06 |
| Saw it Saturday 29th at the Cambridge. It was awfully bad. The theatre wasn't full. - 81.41.205.27) | 08 May 06 |
| I saw CHICAGO last week for the 1'st time in London, at the Cambridge. I have seen the production in a few other countries. I have to say that Amra-Faye Wright (Velma) stole the show! She is a performer who is so in tune with the piece. Looks amazing, fantastic dancer and has a great voice! She is truly a star and I am sure she will soon have writers lined up to create roles for her! The rest of the cast were good. Brenda Edwards was fabulous as Mama Morton, what a wonderful voice. The best version of When your good to Mama I have heard! Bonnie Langford was fine, as was the rest of the company! Unfortunately the Billy Flynn was truly aweful and should not be near a west end stage! Otherwise an enjoyable evening. Go and see it and make sure Amra-Faye Wright is on, you won't regret it! Mr Hewitt - 87.74.53.195) | 07 May 06 |
| I'm really surprised at how good some reviews are. Saw it 1st May at the Cambridge. Bonnie was good as Roxy. Amra-Faye Wright has played Velma for some time and was great. Brenda Edwards probably had a strong voice, however her acting is totally wooden. The choice of Luca Barbareschi as Billy was strange. he has some stage presence but a strong accent, he wasn't as bad as Darius though. All round a disappoiting night. The girls were quite weak in Cell block Tango and the boys are terrible and some of them tiny. - 81.41.204.214) | 07 May 06 |
| We went to see it on May 5th and were horrified. We used to be huge fans of the show but this time were really disappointed. Bonnie Landford's Roxie was fine. Luca Barbareschi was a weird Billy Flynn, has a very strong Italian and at times it's difficult to understand him. Very bad ensemble in general. - 84.123.26.72) | 06 May 06 |
| I was there with a friend on Thursday 4th, and we didn't enjoyed it. It was the third time we'd seen the show and the previous times was so much better -with Nichola Hugues and Ruthie, and then Anita Louise Combe and Anna Jane Casey-. Bonnie did an ok job, just, as Roxie. Luca Barbareschi was fine as Billy. Didn't care for anyone else. Not a busy house, strange considering that the Cambridge is smaller thanthe Adelphi, but it was no more than half full. The audience didn't enjoy it much. Really a not very enjoyable show these days, looking really tired. - 88.3.201.176) | 05 May 06 |
| I saw it this week, at the Cambridge, and thought it was terrific. Bonnie was excellent, as was Amra and the audience (pretty full) were loving it. The one negative was the Italian Stallion as Billy Flynn which did not quite do it for me. - 82.69.37.108) | 05 May 06 |
| One word AWFUL!!! What a dreadful atmosphere. Saw yesterday's show at the Cambridge - half empty house! Apart from Amra Faye Wright and, to a lesser extent, Bonnie Landford, the cast is weak and the ensemble is useless. They donīt have amazing bodies like previous casts and arenīt good performers either. Seen the show once on Broadway and twice in West End. I'm very disappointed this time. Get a new cast. - 81.202.235.234) | 05 May 06 |
| Saw it Saturday 29th, first week at the Cambridge. It was very bad. The theatre wasn't full and it's smaller than the Adelphi. Very bad cast with few exceptions. Wouldn't recommend it with the current ensemble. It needs a new one. The stage is too small, I prefer the Adelphi's. - 86.139.22.181) | 02 May 06 |
| I'm really surprised at how awful these reviews are! Saw it 1st May at Cambridge Theatre. Bonnie was, surprisingly for me, absolutely fabulous as Roxy. Amra-Faye Wright has been playing Velma for some time in various countries and was sublime - all the sex and vampishness you could hope for. Brenda Edwards - she of X Factor fame - probably had the strongest voice of the show, however her nerves made her acting a little wooden, but hopefully that'll improve once she relaxes in to the role. Think the choice of Luca Barbareschi as Billy Flynn was a strange one. Handsome man but not much stage presence - thank God it wasn't Darius though. All round a great night. Enjoyed it far more than i had hoped. The girls' chorus number "He had it Coming" was one of the hightlights. As ever the chorus were impeccable and were the backbone of the show. - 86.141.120.254) | 02 May 06 |
| We went to see it on April 28th and were disgusted. We were fans of the show but were really disappointed. Bonnie Landford's Roxie was ok. Luca Barbareschi was a weird choice for Billy Flynn and it's difficult to understand him. Terrible ensemble. - 86.139.22.181) | 30 Apr 06 |
| I was there with a friend on Saturday 22nd, and we didn't enjoyed it. It was the second time we'd seen the show and the previos time was so much better -original cast with Ute and Ruthie-. Bonnie did an ok job as Roxie. Victor McGuire was good as Amos. Didn't care for anyone else. Not a full house, strange considering that it was the final performance at the Adelphi, but it was no more than 2/3 full. The audience didn't seemed to enjoy it much. Generally a not very enjoyable evening, I thought. - 86.139.22.181) | 25 Apr 06 |
| One word WOW!!! What an amazing atmosphere. Saw the final show at Adelphi - full house! Can't wait to see it again at the Cambridge. All the leads are brilliant and the ensemble sizzle on stage. They all have amazing bodies & are outstanding performers. Seen the show twice on Broadway and 3 times in West End. It's un beleivable they do this 8 times a week. Go guys!! - 82.10.32.239) | 25 Apr 06 |
| Saw it Saturday 22nd, final performance at the Adelphi. It was terrible. Theatre wasn't even full, bad cast. Wouldn't recommend it. It needs a new ensemble. - 82.138.209.34) | 24 Apr 06 |
