As Queen’s College gears up for its highly anticipated production of Chicago, we sat down with Director of Performing Arts Ian Trafford (Pictured above on the set of Chicago), to gain an exclusive insight into the creative vision behind the show and why audiences won’t want to miss this dazzling theatrical experience.

Q: Chicago is an iconic musical that has been running for decades. What makes this production special?

What’s exciting about our production is that we’re returning to the heart of what made Chicago so ground breaking in the first place. When it first appeared on Broadway in the 1970s, it was quite shocking—showing that fame could be achieved through crime rather than morality. Audiences weren’t ready for that message then, but by the 1990s, with the rise of tabloid culture, people realised that Chicago had been telling the truth all along. That revival, which is still running on Broadway, became known for its minimalist, concert-style staging. We’re taking a different approach—bringing the full spectacle of a musical back to the stage. This means stunning set designs, a vibrant 1920s jazz club setting, and a rich, immersive experience that really transports audiences into the Roaring Twenties.

Q: The 1920s setting is crucial to the story. How are you bringing that era to life?

It’s essential that audiences feel the energy of the Roaring Twenties. This was a time of liberation, jazz, and excess, and our production will reflect that in every aspect. The costumes are absolutely breathtaking—true to the era and dripping in glamour. The stage design places our story inside an authentic jazz club, and we even have the orchestra on stage, giving the feeling of a live, speakeasy-style performance. The result is a show that’s visually stunning, historically rich, and utterly engaging.

Q: How does this production challenge the students involved?

Chicago is a true triple threat show—meaning our performers must be exceptional at singing, acting, and dancing. Last year, our big musical was Les Misérables, which was more of a singing and acting challenge. With Chicago, our students must master complex dance routines, intricate harmonies, and bold character portrayals. It’s a different kind of challenge, but one that they are absolutely rising to. Audiences will be blown away by the professionalism and talent on display.

Q: Queen’s College has built a reputation for producing spectacular shows, with past successes like Les Misérables and Harry Potter. How does Chicago compare?

The facilities here rival professional theatres, and we make sure every aspect of the show reflects that. Having worked in professional theatre myself, I know that the production values we bring to Queen’s College often surpass those of many regional theatres. From the lighting to the sound, the set design to the costumes, every element is crafted to create a truly immersive experience. Many people leave our shows saying, “I can’t believe this was a school production.” That’s our goal—this isn’t just a great school show, it’s a great show, full stop.

Q: What would you say to someone considering buying a ticket?

If you saw our Les Mis or Harry Potter productions, you know we set the bar high. Chicago is going to take that even further. Expect high-energy performances, jaw-dropping visuals, and an unforgettable night of entertainment. It’s been a long time since Taunton has seen a production of this scale, and we promise it will be worth it. Whether you love Broadway, jazz, or simply enjoy a spectacular night at the theatre, Chicago at Queen’s College is an event not to be missed.

Tickets are selling fast for Chicago, running from 6 – 9 March 2025.