Students from Richard Taunton Sixth Form College Performing Arts Company Razzle Dazzled audiences in Southampton when they took to the stage to perform their production of ‘Chicago’ the musical recently.
Teaching staff, cast members, stagehands, technicians, musicians, directors, as well as make-up and hair have all been working towards the performances for the whole of the academic year, and their hard work definitely paid off when it opened to the public at Southampton’s Hub Theatre.
Reviews from audience members definitely agreed, with so many praising the production;
WOW, what a Show!
The Cast were outstanding, and at no point did it feel like a College Production and was easily as good as any West End Show, captivating the audience with their natural talent and impressive vocals.
Nicole Golding – Member of the Audience
Brilliantly cast and so much attention to detail with polished performances from all. Thank you so much for all your hard work to ensure the students had an amazing learning and performing opportunity
Ursula Gooding – Member of the Audience
Yet again RTSFC Performing Arts put on another outstanding production of Chicago the Musical.
Luke Brown – of Luke Brown Dance Company
The cast performed to sold-out audiences across the weekend and received a standing ovation on Saturday night for the sheer professionalism and slick execution of one of the most iconic musicals of all time. Set in the roaring twenties, Chicago follows the story of murderesses Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly as they vie for the spotlight, fame, fortune and ultimately acquittal with slick choreography, hit musical numbers and scenes of murder and deception – and this performance didn’t let audiences down!
Cast member Rosie Mellett, who played the role of Roxie Hart, reflected on the process and the opportunity not only to perform in the production but to also develop her skills in other areas as well;
I couldn’t have hoped for a more rewarding and fulfilling experience! Challenged with the role of Roxie Hart, my peers and teachers were the greatest support and, with their guidance and expertise, I was encouraged to achieve my potential. I also had the privilege of being a student musical director and working with the ensemble to bring to life such iconic musical numbers was a highlight of my experience. Next year I’m thrilled to be studying Acting at Italia Conti and, thanks to all the help, motivation and care that I’ve received, I feel fully prepared for the future.
Charlotte King, who took on the role of Velma Kelly said;
Performing in ‘Chicago’ was the highlight of my college experience this year. It gave me an opportunity to realise what I want to do in the future and really enjoy it! I faced many fears of knowing I had to perform in front of sold-out audiences, but with the help and support of my incredible teachers and amazing fellow students, I felt like I could truly be myself and become my character.
Velma Kelly, a strong powerful woman, really helped me embody these new-found qualities in myself as I grew into my confidence. Thankfully, with this newly found confidence, I have successfully auditioned for a place at The Brighton Academy to study a BA (Hons) Degree in Musical Theatre and have everyone at Richard Taunton to thank.
Many cast members of Chicago have been offered places at numerous institutions and well-known drama schools to study Performing Arts subjects in September 2019. Charlotte King (Velma) and Mary Moss (Mama Morton) have both been offered places to study Musical Theatre at the Brighton Academy, Rosie Mellett is off to the world-renown Italia Conti to take up Acting, and Hayley Green (Hunyak) and Crystal Turner-Brightman (Mary Sunshine) have been offered places to study Musical Theatre & Cabaret and Theatre at the University of Chichester.
Head of Performing Arts Kirsty McGregor, said:
This is the tenth year we have presented a full-scale production, and what better musical to choose than one of the most iconic and dazzling of them all! The musical is definitely a challenging one with regards to style, choreography and pace, and we’ve been working hard for months to ensure that everything was performance ready for the show weekend. We’re always amazed by the talent we have here at Richard Taunton and this year really showcased some incredible voices and dancers. We’re so proud of what all the students have achieved and how they’ve shown such professionalism throughout. We can’t wait to get started on the next!
Photography by @RichardBudd© 2019
