Some musicals oose nostalgia, class and a sense of timelessness. Having been around since 1975, Chicago is right at the top of that list - and it's track record is more than easily maintained by the current touring production.

With music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb, and book by Ebb and Bob Fosse, Chicago is based on a 1926 play of the same title. The story is a satire on corruption in the administration of criminal justice and the concept of the 'celebrity criminal'.

The original Broadway production opened in 1975 and ran until 1977. It debuted in the West End in 1979, where it ran for 600 performances with further revivals in London and New York during the 90s. Chicago still holds the record as the second longest-running show to ever run on Broadway, behind only The Phantom of the Opera and the longest-running American musical in West End history.

For many people in the audience tonight, the 2002 Oscar-winning film adaptation starring Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renee Zellweger may well have been their first encounter with the show but whether it was on the big screen, or a big stage, what was clear this evening was the special place that Chicago holds in their heart.

First special mention should clearly go to the creative team who, once again, brought Bob Fosse's iconic choreography to life. Stemming from the the original production, his style is so strongly identified with the show that there's very little room for change and it's that sense of comfort and familiarity that makes the show what it is.

The dancers on stage this evening were simply exceptional. Synchronised and not putting a step wrong, there were moments your eyes left the lead and focussed purely on the ensemble, such were their immense talent.

However, talking of leads, Faye Brookes (Grease, Shrek The Musical) stars as Roxie Hart and brings a fresh take on the role. Mixing timid with confident, Brookes looked like she'd been performing in Roxie's shoes for decades. Alongside Faye, Djalenga Scott (Annie, Joseph) takes on the mantle of Velma Kelly and the duo create a chemistry that's palpable. Their 'interactions were on point and their rendition of the infamous Hot Honey Rag was a high point.

Joel Montague excels as Amos Hart with a near-perfect rendition of 'Mr Cellophane' which tugged at the heart-strings (pun intended!) of the entire audience. Darren Day (Joseph, Grease) brought charisma and charm in a part that could have been written for him. His strong vocal ability and commanding stage presence personified the character which has been performed by a growing list of leading men - one which Darren easily fits into.

Sinitta, best known for her hit single 'So Macho' in 1985, proved beyond doubt that she was more than a pop star turned talent show judge. Like Billy Flynn, Mama Morton is a role that has an envious list of performers attached to it, but Sinitta made the part her own. Her Mama was less brash and loud and more subtle and in control and, with her soaring vocals, a part that was in very safe hands.

All in all, this show is a well-loved theatre classic. Gracing the West End before a lot of its newer generation were conceived. If you're after familiarity with a twist of contemporary sass and unlimited amounts of corruption, murder and greed then Chicago is the show you need this week.

Chicago plays at Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre until Saturday 29th January 2022. For more information or to get your tickets, head online to atgtickets.com/birmingham