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Date Posted... Nov 25th 2024

Criminally Good; Chicago: Teen Edition

Living up to its accolade as a national leader in creative and performing arts, Truro School delivered a show-stopping rendition of Chicago: Teen Edition, captivating audiences over five dazzling sold-out performances. This gritty, glorious performance perfectly brought to life 1920s Chicago with an electrifying energy.

With crime and scandal running through the heart of the story, our Senior cast took on their roles with the confidence and charisma of experienced stage actors. From the sharp, sultry and despicable, the commitment to character was palpable, while the ensemble’s magnetic presence and impeccable choreography helped to shape the plot and story perfectly.

Directed and choreographed by Tee J Randall and produced by Ben Oldfield, every moment felt authentic, showcasing the incredible dedication and skill of the Truro School Music and Drama communities. Whether delivering biting humour, dramatic tension, or show-stopping musical numbers, the cast demonstrated an astonishing level of professionalism and polish.

The performance perfectly embraced the very essence of Bob Fosse’s signature choreography; staying true to the original while bringing a fresh energy and interpretation to the piece.

“It’s an art form that demands not just physicality, but a deep understanding of musicality, attitude and timing. Seeing the cast not only replicate but also make it their own has been a thrilling experience,” reflects Tee J Randall.

Matching the cast’s brilliance was the exceptional Band, led by Musical Director Richard Osmond. Their musical precision and emotive playing provided the heartbeat of the production. The iconic score was delivered with flair, seamlessly enhancing the action on stage, and accentuating moments of tension, comedy, and triumph with perfect timing.

The costumes, set and lighting design further elevated the show, transforming the Burrell Theatre into a moody, jazz-soaked playground where the drama unfolded. Cleverly constructed with moving staircases to create each scene fluidly; from murder scenes to prison to courtroom, it was a dynamic set that perfectly showcased the glamour and grit of Chicago.

Perhaps the most extraordinary aspect of the production was the subtle interplay between the cast, crew, and orchestra. Each element worked beautifully together to bring the story’s dark comedy and satire to life with impeccable timing and wit. It truly was an impressive effort from all of those involved, both on stage and behind the scenes.

Truro School’s Chicago: Teen Edition was an electrifying, razor-sharp experience and a masterclass in musical theatre. Congratulations to all involved for creating a perfect performance that left the audience spellbound.