The famous musical has helped show off the depth of talent in the Bendigo theatre scene with stellar performances, choreography and direction. 

The visually-stunning production brings to life the story of sultry murderesses, manipulative lawyers and characters desperate for attention in 1920s Chicago.

Taking the leads in the show are Alicia Barker as the naive but attention-seeking Roxie Hart, Saari Frochot-Ryan as renowned murderess Velma Kelly and Chris Emond as lawyer Billy Flynn.

The trio have great chemistry with Frochot-Ryan standing out with superb vocal and stage work in I Can't Do It Alone, When Velma Takes the Stand and, of course, All That Jazz.

Emond and Barker work very well together, especially in We Both Reached For the Gun and the trial sequences. 

Adding to the talent of the leads is an impressive company that helps knit the entire show together. 

The whole company also shows off its considerable acting, dancing and singing skills in Cell Block Tango where the six merry murderesses are introduced.

Supporting the leads is a stand-out chorus line as well as supporting characters Joel McDonald as Amos Hart, and Trella O'Loughlin as "Mama" Morton. 

Joel's sympathy inducing rendition of Mr Cellophane and O'Loughling's  performance as the corrupt but motherly Matron Morton are highlights.

As Roxie and Velma battle for power and scrabble for the attention of the press, the cast get tighter and draw the audiences attention in with the help of the band lead by Cynthia Holsworth.

In a time where music was also a star, the band does well to make sure the audiences will tap their toes and sing under their breath.

Also adding to the production are outstanding costumes and well-thought-out and innovative stage lighting. 

Bendigo Theatre Company's production of Chicago opens at 8pm on Friday, September 26, at The Capital. For tickets phone 5434 6100.