Chicago Promo HIRES

Chicago: The Musical, a dazzling and satirical look at fame, justice and the media, is just around the corner. Stages, the Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association's theatre repertory company, has spent months preparing a ten-performance run that opens June 8th at the Bingen Theatre. A host of cast, crew and volunteer workers spent hours painting and generally sprucing up the theatre in preparation for opening night.

"Chicago is an ideal mix of high-energy entertainment and relevant social commentary," said director Bruce Ludwig. "Dozens of actors, crew members and musicians have poured tremendous energy into creating a powerhouse show."Set in the Roaring '20s, the story follows Roxie (Ashly Will), an aspiring starlet who will do anything to become famous. Landing in prison, she meets her idol Velma (April Sampson), an established star who is also trying to beat a murder rap. Roxie craves the celebrity and success Velma commands, but they both want their slick lawyer, Billy Flynn (Joe Garoutte) to manipulate the system and set them free. Mama (Rebecca Stryker), the prison matron, holds the keys in more ways than one.

"In addition to the main characters, our supporting characters pack a wallop, and our dynamite ensemble is in nearly every number," said Ludwig. "Plus we have a live jazz band, led by Mark Steighner (CGOA's Artistic Director). The music -- by Kander and Ebb (most famous for Cabaret) -- is a vibrant, essential character in the show." The music is inspired by various styles of vaudeville popular during the jazz age. The numerous dance numbers were choreographed by Susan Sorensen, owner of Columbia Gorge Dance Academy. 

Seating is limited so get your tickets now!

Performances: June 8,9,14,15,16,21,22,23 at 7:30 PM. June 10 and 17 at 2 PM. Bingen Theatre. Tickets $15 Adults (18+), $10 Students (12-17). Not recommended for children under 12. Under 16 must be accompanied by adult. Tickets at the door or through gorgeorchestra.org

Dream Still Lives