... narrative clarity, logical progression and strong theatrical images. All of those are evident in Chicago. But more importantly, they know that a musical must have heart and wear that heart on its sleeve. There is a deep-seated, salt-of-the-earth sentimentality to the piece that makes any of its comic excesses, its occasional vulgarity and the ridiculousness of some of its situations completely acceptable and even enjoyable. Kander and Ebb start with the basic story of "Murder, greed, corruption, violence, exploitation, adultery, treachery..." and the essential characteristics of Velma Kelly, Roxie Hart and the other characters. They create fully defined individuals, giving clear presentations of the motivation of each. Kander and Ebb's script moves beautifully into 'All That Jazz' and Velma sings while we see the story of Roxie Hart. As crucial to the success of a musical as the book is, it is the score that draws most attention and here Chicago has ...

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