Give 'em the old razzle dazzle.
Multi award-winning, record-breaking musical 'Chicago' is currently playing in Sydney and will hit Brisbane in November, followed by Melbourne.The show stars some immensely talented Australian names including versatile performer Natalie Bassingthwaighte as Roxie Hart, musical theatre star Alinta Chidzey as Velma Kelly, and powerhouse vocalist Casey Donovan as Matron 'Mama' Morton.
It's a story of murder, redemption, celebrity criminals, and all that jazz.
Here, Casey Donovan chats about the musical and her stint as Matron 'Mama' Morton.
The show is currently playing in Sydney. How has the role of Matron 'Mama' Morton been for you so far?!
The role has been absolutely amazing – more than I could have ever hoped for!
What do you love about 'Chicago' as a story?
It’s such a great story – set in the 1920s about two women that kill their spouses and all they have to do is plead guilty and they get off! What’s not to love about that!
And as a stage show?
Brilliant – timeless! It is one of those shows where you get a great laugh – and great music.
You've got a few musical theatre credits up your sleeve. What makes Matron 'Mama' Morton stand out from the other characters you've played?
One thing is her assertiveness and the light and shade she brings. When she is on, she is on – grounded and classy and deeply emotional.
Image © Peter Brew-Bevan
Do you have a favourite moment in character as Matron 'Mama' Morton?
Many favourites throughout the show – hard to pick just one! I am lucky that I get to have a moment with just about everyone – playing with Velma and Roxie – the power struggle. . . But Mama always wins!
What does a typical half hour to an hour before showtime entail for Casey Donovan? Any unorthodox pre-show rituals?
On the hour we do a group warmup – vocal and physical – and then after that I usually step out for fresh air and run the opening song and first two scenes and then I come downstairs and fix up my face, get dressed and mic up. I like to try and meditate to ground myself and get in the space. Five minutes before 'show time' I put my wig on. And on we go!
What's something you've learnt during your time in 'Chicago' thus far?
To have fun and enjoy myself – it is always good to be prepared but also allow yourself to have fun!
What has been the most challenging element of the role/show?
Mama is such a fun character to play – but she is challenging in some ways – being in the moment and not over-thinking might be the biggest one.
Do you have any goals/intentions when you go on stage every night – apart from, of course, getting through the show?!
I often give myself little things to look out for – one night I will focus on articulation, one night listening, and other little things to keep it fresh and new. The end goal and intention, however, is to always ensure the audience has a fantastic experience.
