Chicago is an international multi-award-winning musical with a catchy score, outstanding choreography, sharp wit, tales of seduction and plenty of razzle-dazzle!

Set in the 1920s, the story tells of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her secret lover after he threatens to walk out on her.  Roxie becomes desperate to avoid a guilty conviction and employs a well-known criminal lawyer to help get the media on her side and turn her crime into an innocent act of self-defence.

Up until the murder and media frenzy, another famous dancer called Velma Kelly was in the spotlight but this soon shifts and her upcoming tour is cancelled.

The orchestra is in full view on stage giving you the full music experience right in front of your eyes and clever lighting adds to the jazz night club experience.

There are some well-known faces in the show with Roxie Hart being played by Janette Manrara, a former Strictly Come Dancing professional and Sinitta who plays Matron ‘Mama’ Morton.  The whole cast are incredible in their performance and you won’t want to take your eyes off them for a second.

Everyone knows the familiar songs “Razzle Dazzle”, “Cell Block Tango”, and “All That Jazz” which are all performed beautifully.

Chicago is a timeless classic which was thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish.  It’s sexy, electric, fun and by far one of the best musicals I’ve ever seen.

Chicago is on in Bournemouth from now until Saturday 5th April 2025.  For more information and to book tickets, please visit the Bournemouth Pavilion.  Age recommendation 12+.

Dorsetmums was invited to the Bournemouth Pavilion for the purpose of a vreiew however all words are my own.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang the Musical is based on Ian Fleming’s timeless story for children and was later made into the famous 1968 film.  The kind and slightly absent-minded inventor Caractacus Potts has already made numerous creations but not all are successful first time round.  With the help of his children, Jemima and Jeremy, he restores a broken-down old racing car which the family soon discovers has magical powers.

Things aren't quite plain sailing though as the car has caught the attention of the Baron and Baroness of Vulgaria and poor Grandpa Potts gets kidnapped in a case of mistaken identity.  So the family and the delectable Truly Scrumptious go on fantastical adventure to save him!  Once there, they discover that children are banned and poor Jemima and Jeremy are hunted by the evil childcatcher.  With the help of the toymaker, Mr Potts saves the day and rescues all the children.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a thoroughly entertaining show with an outstanding cast, stunning vocals, musical numbers that everyone knows, dazzling visual effects and an impressive set design.  It was such a joy to be taken into their wonderfully fantastical world for a few hours and the highlight had to be watching Chitty take to the sky.

A few words from Dorsetnanny: "This truly scrumptious classic show has it all, a great cast, fun, plenty of laughs, wonderful music and the icing on the cake being the legendary Chitty Chitty Bang Bang car.  Lively performance from all, it brought back happy memories of this 60's classic.  Well done everyone for such a fantastic performance."

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is on at in Bournemouth until Sunday 23rd March 2025.  For more information and tickets, please visit Bournemouth Pavilion.