Chicago School Musical

By Isabell Zhu Dec. 11, 2025

Ryan Park Art

The stage lights dim, the orchestra hums a quiet melody and a hush falls over the audience. A single spotlight makes its way on stage—just in time for the school’s long-awaited production of “Chicago” to begin with a jazzy, scandalous and ritzy adaptation of Velma Kelly’s “All That Jazz.” 

The school’s rendition of “Chicago” premiered on Nov. 12 at 4:30 p.m., followed by evening performances on Nov. 13, Nov. 14, Nov. 20, Nov. 21 and Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. Drama has been preparing for this November showcase since Aug. 12. The team consists of 45 students—23 cast members and 22 crew members—along with 17 parent volunteers who have contributed to the adaptation. 

“I would say that this was the most collaborative show I have ever done. All the adults in it worked together well, and were all very caring and attentive to my well-being,” Drama Advisor Liz Taylor-Rotzow, English Department, said.  

Set in the jazzy, chaotic streets of Chicago, “Chicago” centers around Roxie Hart, an aspiring nightclub singer on death row for murdering her lover. Out of desperation, she turns to lawyer Billy Flynn—a man who turns her conviction into fame. Written by lyricist Fred Ebb and composer John Kander, this musical seeks to capture the vaudeville-esque era of the 1920s through a satirical portrayal of the criminal justice system.  

Many student actors and volunteers contributed to the building of the set, including Senior Shawn Altman, who highlights the new developments made with the high level of collaboration and communication within the production.  

“We hired new people, such as a choreographer, built a huge set with two floors, had a lot more involvement with costumes and found more efficient ways to use our budget," said Altman. 

Other students further emphasize the collaboration between cast and crew, such as Senior Erin Vidyasagar, who reflects on the importance of teamwork in such a fast-paced environment. 

“The amount of collaboration and hard work put into creating this musical was most memorable for me. For example, when we learned the overture, one of the girls was absent. I filled in for her, learned the choreography, and taught it to her. It made me realize the importance of working together as a team,” said Vidyasagar.  

For some students, such as Senior Mykelle Liffick, “Chicago” marked the start of their musical journey. 

“I had a lot of fun participating in “Chicago.” I got my first official role this year, and was able to receive technical dance practice with the new dance instructor,” said Liffick. 

Additionally, the musical features live music performed by Band and Orchestra members and conducted by Rian Rodriguez, Visual Performing Arts Department. The orchestra consisted of 15 musicians, including one double bass, one drum, two pianos, two trumpets, two trombones, two violins, one tuba, one clarinet, and three saxophones. In preparation for the duration of the musical, the students learned 36 pieces.  

“I really enjoyed it. Everyone put in a lot of effort, and was very supportive. I feel a real sense of achievement that we made such a complex piece together,” Sophomore Youyou Shen said.  

While “Chicago” tells a story of manipulation, corruption and satirical commentary, the behind the scenes has been a story of support, teamwork, and passion. 

“If I had to choose adjectives to describe my experience working with everyone on ‘Chicago,’ I would use intense, wild, funny, absurd, exciting and challenging. I hope the audience can enjoy the show just as much as I have enjoyed working on it,” said Taylor-Rotzow. 

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About the Contributors

Isabella Zhu

Viewpoint Page Editor 

Isabella Zhu is a sophomore at Leland High School and the Viewpoint page editor for The Charger Account. She enjoys reading books and browsing Netflix in her free time.

Ryan Park

Artist

Ryan Park is a junior at Leland High School who is an artist for The Charger Account. When he is not residing at the gym, he likes to mess with his cats and read manga.