Bigfork Summer Playhouse opens with 'Chicago,' 'Grease'

Every year the Bigfork Summer Playhouse brings alive worlds of spectacle, dance and music with their summer season. Actors, directors, designers and technicians come together from all over the country to bring the best of showbiz to Bigfork.

The first two musicals of the summer, "Chicago" and "Grease" keep this tradition alive with their contrasting styles, familiar songs and something-for-everyone attitude.

"Chicago," directed by BSP veteran Michael Weaver, is the gritty tale of murder and fame set in the 1920s era of prohibition and Al Capone. We follow the story of Roxie Hart, a chorus-girl-turned-murderer when she kills her lover. In the intrigue-filled world of prison, trial and reporters, Roxie spins her case in competition with fellow murderess and vaudeville star, Velma Kelly. Both dream that gaining the brightest media spotlight and the biggest newspaper headline will free them and win them the fame they hunger for. Full of classic Fosse movement and jazzy mood, "Chicago" brings us into a realm of show-biz news reporting and "razzle dazzle" courtroom drama. Even with the popularity of the recent film, this play is not recommended for small children. "Chicago" has won six Tony Awards, including one for best revival in its second extended Broadway run. Songs include "The Cell Block Tango," "Mr. Cellophane," and "All That Jazz."

"Grease," directed by Missoula Children's Theatre's Joe Martinez, is a bad-boy meets good-girl story woven into a tapestry of 50s rock 'n' roll music. We throw in with the greasers and the hip, bad girls of the Rydell High School's Class of '59. Greaser gang leader Danny Zuko plays it cool while pursuing the love of his life, the sweet Sandy Dumbrowski, while his gang of outcast guys and their lady cohorts sing and dance through their own ups and downs. Sing along to guitar songs in the school halls and hang out with the guys and the gals at the drive-in, the slumber party and of course the big high school dance. Sway, sigh, swoon and tap your toes to tunes like, "Greased Lightnin," "We Go Together," and "Those Summer Nights."

"Chicago" opens BSP's musical season on June 11, with "Grease" following on June 13. Shows run through Aug. 27 with nightly curtains at 8 p.m. and 2 p.m. Sunday matinees.

Avoid sold out houses and buy tickets early. For ticket prices, availability and to make reservations, call the box office at 837-4886 or visit www.bigforksummerplayhouse.com