London Cabaret Club has been entertaining crowds since 2013 and has built up a strong reputation for delivering sophisticated nights of drama, dance and dinner in the opulent setting of The Bloomsbury Ballroom, which they have called home since 2019. Roxie Rocks Chicago is their latest immersive dining experience based on the musical that has been wooing audiences around the world for decades.
But this is not a West End show. There is no story to follow, characters to love, hate, develop or bond with. That's not a criticism, as this production is purely about the whole experience with the focus squarely on the sensational music and dance. There is a toe-tapping ensemble cast of sexy dancers who are inspired by the musical but are not bound by it. As artistic director and choreographer, Doni Fierro uses the songs from Chicago to create a show that is true to the essence of 1920s downtown Chicago, but with a modern twist. Strobe lighting, clever screens and a range of both sophisticated and basic props are used to enrich the performers' delivery. My favourite involved life-sized puppets that are used to embellish the number of dancers on stage in one of the more energetic, crazy and fun-filled numbers.
The two intervals almost turn into a separate and equally enthralling show of their own, thanks to the skill and mind-blowing aerial routines by Duo Odyssey. Many may remember them from Britain’s Got Talent some years back when they became the first duo to bring their aerial performance to the ITV show. In the flesh, their mesmerising show is equally mind-blowing and, despite being completely different from the entire theme of the night, it works well in the context of the space.
As well as the slick and seamless choreography that dominates the evening, there are moments when the focus changes and the heavenly sound of live music takes over. From Paul McDowell to the phenomenal powerhouse that is Lorna Marshall, the singers hold their own among the much larger cast of dancers. As an entire cast, this combo helps the audience connect with the show which at times comes close to playing second fiddle to the overall dining experience. The interludes involving the singers are an important part of the entire night that help elevate the production from a dance show taking place during dinner to a show which is able to connect with people and take them on a journey.
London is super good and delivering immersive dining experiences which take a much-loved West End musical and build a whole night around it for theatregoers to enjoy. Whether it is Mamma Mia or the yet to open Priscilla Queen of the Desert experience, there are quite a few choose from. None are cheap and all are operating at a price point that means a significant investment, so it is vital every element on offer is top class, West End quality that leaves viewers wanting more.
Roxie Rocks Chicago delivers on all fronts. But, unlike some of the other immersive dining experiences around, it might benefit from developing the story associated with the songs from Chicago The Musical. Anyone who loves the score will undoubtedly also adore the ups and downs of Roxy Hart and the Mickey Flynn and want to invest in their characters. I would normally be disappointed by an ensemble cast of lip-syncers, especially in London, but it is worth remembering this is a cast of predominantly dancers who are attempting to pretend to sing. For that reason, it no way distracts from what they do to the highest level. But more live West End quality belters from the singers who are more than capable would elevate the show to a whole new level.
Razzle dazzle you will get, along with some of the most delicious cuisine around, world class tap dancing, aerial performances from two very hot performers and an overall extravaganza that will simply bring an old classic tale smack up to date in the most wonderful and glamorous settings possible.