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06/09/2022 12:00 AMPacked with local talent, a dynamic dancing and singing auditioned cast, and all that jazz, Branford Parks and Recreation Shoreline Theatre Company (STC) brings "Chicago" to Branford for three live performances Thursday, June 23 through Saturday, June 25.
The hit musical, a legacy work of famed director, dancer and choreographer Bob Fosse, is currently Broadway's longest-running revival, making this a rare opportunity to see it simultaneously in community theatre, said STC director Colin Sheehan.
Set in the women's annex of Cook County jail in the heart of the Roaring '20's Jazz Age, "...it's just fun," says Sheehan of the show. "It's a big dance show. Bob Fosse's dancing is incredible. Our choreographer Paola Rarick is incredible. Our music director Mike Martone is incredible."
Principal performers include Branford High School (BHS) alumnae/SCSU sophomore Sophia Coppola (Roxie Hart) and BHS senior Bella Rarick (Velma Kelly). Slightly racy due to some saucy content (think PG-13), the STC production involves adult cast members from 10 shoreline towns who range in age from 18 to 60.
"We like doing stuff that's a little edgier for our adults," says Sheehan.
Launched in the summer of 2018, STC has delivered live shows in past years including Hairspray and The Producers before COVID-19 protocols curbed its traditional productions.
"We had to take a few years off for the pandemic, but to come back strong with Chicago, a show that we didn't think we'd be able to do – because it is still on Broadway, and Branford is so close to New York City – everyone is just having so much fun," said Sheehan. "To see the joy that they get on stage from singing, dancing and acting, and to see the arts come back, after the crazy pause that we've all had to go through, is just great."
Another STC adult production coming to town this summer will be "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee," (PG-13) with three shows July 8 and July 9. Additionally, STC will mount a young performers edition of the Wizard of Oz (PG) coming July 27 – 28.
STC Chicago show dates are Thursday, June 23, 7 p.m.; Friday, June 24, 7 p.m. and Saturday, June 25, 1 p.m. All shows are in the Cathyann Roding Auditorium at Branford High School, 185 East Main St. Tickets, $15, are available now at branfordrecreation.org or call (203) 488-8304. For updates, follow Shoreline Theatre Company on Facebook.