Michelle Grunyan
Crimson Chronicle Reporter
The Hollywood High Performing Arts Magnet (PAM) took the stage with a dazzling performance of Chicago (1975), an iconic musical that criticizes the flawed criminal justice system and explores how media sensationalism can transform criminals into celebrities.
After being set in the ‘roaring ‘20s’ – a decade characterized by liberating social and cultural changes — the musical follows the story of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, two women who manipulate the public eye and shift their status from accused murderers to vaudeville stars.
With the help of Billy Flynn, a cunning lawyer who crafts the public image of his clients as innocent, the two women exploit the public’s gullible nature and escape federal punishment by turning their cases into media sensations.
Luna Herrera, a junior who played the role of Matron “Mama” Morton in the musical, shares how Chicago cultivates a message of its own towards both actors and viewers of the show.
“People really are very susceptible to being manipulated by the media in their portrayal of certain people and events in the world”, said Herrera.
Capturing the ‘razzle-dazzle’ of Chicago’s characters and background setting is no easy feat, yet PAM brought a 50-year story back to life through their performance.
When asked about her preparation process, Herrera reflected on her dedication towards the musical.
“I just think about how hard we all worked to put together such an amazing show”, said Herrera. “It also helps that I love theater with my entire heart”.
In addition to preparation, adaptability towards rehearsal hiccups makes way for learning experiences for student casts.
For Herrera, the most challenging aspect of preparing for her role was “remembering that I still have a lot to learn, and that’s ok.” She adds on how “[she] had some struggles really grasping [her] character and how to really embody her.”
Even with these struggles, Herrera and the overall student cast left visitors and students impressed with the casts’ range of vocal variety, aesthetic and charm.
The most rewarding part of Herrera’s work is the connections and friendships she has made through theater. “I love my audience and live for the applause, but knowing I share something with people I truly love is definitely the best part.”
Performing on stage requires immense courage and perseverance towards any obstacles that may show face before and during showday. However, the existence of setbacks should not discourage aspiring performers from reaching their full potential through theater and expressing themselves in a form of art they love.
“If you want to perform, do it. I will forever regret not auditioning for a show sooner”, said Herrera. “I’ve only had two years with theater and it has been the most rewarding experience of my life.”
Hollywood’s exhibition of Chicago ultimately mirrors real-world issues that prevail even within today’s public, and how the composition of story headlines can dismiss facts over fame.
