Chicago is what musical theatre should be all about.
Rehearsals for Pelican’s highly anticipated Chicago - High School Edition are underway and we talked to Music Director, Ben Francis about what he loves about the show and his creative vision for the musical direction.
What inspired you to join the creative team of Chicago – High School Edition?
There were a number of factors which made this decision very easy. Firstly, I have been lucky enough to work with Jen, Kylie, Anthea and the rest of the Pelican team on a number of occasions, but most recently as Benny in their 2019 production of ‘In The Heights’. They run a tight ship, and produce stunning, high-calibre productions. Secondly, I jumped at the chance of working alongside Mim Sarre and Maddie Lochert as director and choreographer respectively. They are extraordinary talents in the creative industry, and their vision, passion and innovation are second-to-none. And lastly… who can say no to Chicago?!
Can you share your vision for the musical direction for the show?
One of the main things I love about Chicago is that, over the years, it has established itself as a timeless piece of musical theatre. The premise – that a world of crooked lawyers and a public who craves violence is as dangerous and frightening as the crimes themselves – is as pertinent today as ever. However, these themes are communicated through the musical language of 1920’s vaudeville, with flavours of jazz and ragtime throughout. Indeed, every song in the musical is in the style of a specific vaudeville performer or tradition, anchoring the show in a specific historical moment. So, with that in mind, I am honouring these musical styles whilst injecting colourful bursts of intricate harmonies, which show off the cast and give the show a contemporary edge.
What can audiences expect to love most about this production?
Chicago is what musical theatre should be all about. It’s escapism on the one hand, and a relevant analysis of contemporary society on the other. It’s delicious and it’s cynical; all at the same time! The cast we have assembled are of an extremely high standard, and their passion and energy are what is driving the show. And the music is amazing. You’ll be humming ‘He had it coming’ for weeks after the fact.
Ben is a highly accomplished performer and veteran of the South Australian performing arts scene. He regularly works with companies such as State Opera of South Australia, Independent Theatre, Ding Productions, Adelaide Theatre Academy, Adelaide Youth Theatre, and of course Pelican Productions. Ben is also the lead vocalist and musical arranger of The 60 Four, scaling the falsetto heights of Frankie Valli in venues around Australia in Adelaide’s first-class ‘60s tribute act. Ben is also a Vocal Teacher at Theatre Bugs.
What inspired you to join the creative team of Chicago – High School Edition?
There were a number of factors which made this decision very easy. Firstly, I have been lucky enough to work with Jen, Kylie, Anthea and the rest of the Pelican team on a number of occasions, but most recently as Benny in their 2019 production of ‘In The Heights’. They run a tight ship, and produce stunning, high-calibre productions. Secondly, I jumped at the chance of working alongside Mim Sarre and Maddie Lochert as director and choreographer respectively. They are extraordinary talents in the creative industry, and their vision, passion and innovation are second-to-none. And lastly… who can say no to Chicago?!
Can you share your vision for the musical direction for the show?
One of the main things I love about Chicago is that, over the years, it has established itself as a timeless piece of musical theatre. The premise – that a world of crooked lawyers and a public who craves violence is as dangerous and frightening as the crimes themselves – is as pertinent today as ever. However, these themes are communicated through the musical language of 1920’s vaudeville, with flavours of jazz and ragtime throughout. Indeed, every song in the musical is in the style of a specific vaudeville performer or tradition, anchoring the show in a specific historical moment. So, with that in mind, I am honouring these musical styles whilst injecting colourful bursts of intricate harmonies, which show off the cast and give the show a contemporary edge.
What can audiences expect to love most about this production?
Chicago is what musical theatre should be all about. It’s escapism on the one hand, and a relevant analysis of contemporary society on the other. It’s delicious and it’s cynical; all at the same time! The cast we have assembled are of an extremely high standard, and their passion and energy are what is driving the show. And the music is amazing. You’ll be humming ‘He had it coming’ for weeks after the fact.
Ben is a highly accomplished performer and veteran of the South Australian performing arts scene. He regularly works with companies such as State Opera of South Australia, Independent Theatre, Ding Productions, Adelaide Theatre Academy, Adelaide Youth Theatre, and of course Pelican Productions. Ben is also the lead vocalist and musical arranger of The 60 Four, scaling the falsetto heights of Frankie Valli in venues around Australia in Adelaide’s first-class ‘60s tribute act. Ben is also a Vocal Teacher at Theatre Bugs.
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