'Chicago': the iconic musical is returning to South Africa in August

If there’s one musical that knows how to bring the razzle-dazzle, it’s "Chicago".

The award-winning Broadway and West End sensation is making a much-anticipated return to South Africa this year and it’s set to be sexier, slicker and more seductive than ever.

From August 27 to September 28, the iconic show will light up Cape Town’s Artscape Theatre before heading to Montecasino’s Teatro in Johannesburg from October 3 to November 9. 

Set in the roaring 1920s, "Chicago" is a tale of ambition, crime and media frenzy, proving that fame - no matter how fleeting - can get you out of just about anything. The musical follows Roxie Hart, a wannabe vaudeville star who finds herself behind bars after murdering her lover.

But she’s not alone - she shares the jailhouse spotlight with Velma Kelly, a seasoned performer with a scandalous past. With the help of slick lawyer Billy Flynn, both women spin their crimes into sensational headlines, turning their trials into the greatest show in town.

Since its Broadway debut in 1975, "Chicago" has remained one of the most celebrated musicals of all time across the world. With its satire, sultry choreography (thank you, Bob Fosse) and unforgettable jazz-infused score, it’s no surprise that the show has won multiple Tony Awards.

The 2002 film adaptation, starring Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Richard Gere, only cemented its legendary status - winning the Oscar for Best Picture and reigniting interest in the stage production.

No "Chicago" experience is complete without its knockout musical numbers. Who can resist the seductive charm of “All That Jazz,” or the deliciously dark humour of “Cell Block Tango”? “Razzle Dazzle” turns courtroom drama into a spectacle, while “We Both Reached for the Gun” is a masterclass in manipulation set to music.

And let’s not forget “Nowadays,” the bittersweet finale that reminds us that fame is fleeting, but a great performance is forever. These are the songs that pull you straight into the heart of the story.

While watching productions on the television can be comforting, there’s something about experiencing "Chicago" in person that no film or recording can replicate. The slinky Fosse choreography, the jazz-club atmosphere, and the sheer energy of the performers make it a theatrical masterpiece.

Every note, every step, every smirk from Billy Flynn or eye-roll from Velma Kelly is designed to keep you hooked. The show’s mix of drama, dark comedy, and show-stopping numbers guarantees a night to remember.

With its return, "Chicago" is ready to bring all the glitz, glamour, and scandal back to the stage. So, if you’re craving a bit of jazz, crime, and good old-fashioned entertainment.

∎Tickets are available to purchase through Ticketmaster.