by Jake Kwon ’26
After many delays and interviewing, here is a recap of the Bellarmine Theater Chicago the Musical!
Several weeks ago the Bellarmine Theater Program hosted their Winter Musical, Chicago: Teen Edition. Students from multiple high schools including Bellarmine came together to perform the iconic musical in Sobrato Theater.
The production by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse revolves around the story of several rotating stars, Velma Kelly, Roxie Hart, and Billy Flynn, through a series of betrayal, manipulation, and dark humor. Known for its iconic jazz music and dancing, the musical explores a wide range of themes such as corruption and criminality.
I myself was fortunate enough to purchase a seat before tickets sold out, and let’s just say–I was not disappointed!
The film had a riveting liveliness that separates itself from other shows; it added an extra layer of depth to the overall plot and made it more meaningful.
The Bell Online caught up with one of the stars of the show, sophomore Aiden Mangalick ‘26 as well as ensemble member Andrew Li ‘27 to get their thoughts and reflections on the show, alongside some insight as to what goes on behind the stage.
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Please note that these interviews have been slightly modified for clarity.
Aiden Mangalick ‘26 – Billy Flynn
Q: Why did you choose to play Billy Flynn?
I auditioned for the role of Billy Flynn because I knew from my past experience working in theater I would be able to play a suave and charming character well. I knew his vocal range would fit well into mine and I thought it would be a good character fit for me.
Q: What do you think is special about Chicago specifically?
The most special thing about the show Chicago has to be the choreography. The dancing in the show is so unique thanks to the original choreographer of the show, Bob Fosse, and our choreographers who interpreted it in their own unique way.
Q: What was your favorite part of the play?
My favorite part of the play is getting to both sing and hear others sing with the band. Bellarmine’s department is extremely lucky to have such good funding which allows it to have a large jazz band full of talented professional musicians. Being able to hear that night after night is such an amazing thing to witness.
Q: Walk me through the memorization and practice behind the scenes–What is it like backstage?
Memorizing all the lines, music, and dance counts are just a few of the things that all the actors need to do. It can take time but I find I begin to start absorbing and memorizing many things just as the process of learning the show goes on. A lot of different people need to do many different things to make all the actors look as good as possible on stage, and it would be impossible to do anything if Bellarmine didn’t provide such wonderful resources for everyone in the department to use.
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Andrew Li ‘27 – Ensemble
Q: How was it auditioning for your role in the ensemble?
I thought it was very interesting, there was a lot of dancing involved and the casting environment was very nice.
Q: What was your favorite part of the film Chicago?
My favorite part is the overture “All That Jazz”, the music is great.
Q: Why did you choose to be a part of the ensemble?
I initially auditioned for a different role, but I wasn’t chosen for it, so I was placed into the ensemble.
Q: What do you think is special about Bellarmine’s Theater Program?
I think that Bellarmine’s Theater Program is very prestigious and is able to bring so many people together. From what I have heard from other actors from different schools is that the environment is very demanding and competitive, so I think that Bellarmine does a good job with creating a good casting environment.
Q: Is there anything else you would like to add or report?
Come see Antigone!
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That’s all for today folks! The production was a huge success–and an entertaining one at, for sure. The Bellarmine Theater Program is truly an inspirational program that you should definitely check out. Tickets are currently on sale for their spring production, Antigone, so be sure to check it out–you’ll regret not doing so!
With the year coming to a close, now is the time to check the theater out for some quality entertainment! Happy watching Bells!
photos courtesy of Nathan V. Nguyen ’25