Schools

Bold, Satirical Musical Takes The Stage At Central Bucks West

The school's Harlequin Club is bringing "Chicago: Teen Edition" to Doylestown for four electrifying shows.

Cell block Tango.
Cell block Tango. (Harlequin Club)

DOYLESTOWN, PA — The CB West Harlequin Club is bringing the electrifying musical - Chicago: Teen Edition - to the stage in four memorable performances.

Set in the “Roaring Twenties,” the sharp-witted satire of fame, justice, and media manipulation will come to life with a dynamic double-cast production of the show by composer John Kander, lyricist Fred Ebb, and librettist, director, and choreographer Bob Fosse.

In 1920s Chicago, housewife and aspiring nightclub performer Roxie Hart finds herself at the center of a sensational murder trial, where celebrity, scandal, and courtroom theatrics collide.

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Alongside fellow “Merry Murderess” Velma Kelly, Roxie navigates a world where public perception often outweighs truth, and notoriety can become a path to freedom.

The character Roxie performing a dance number. (Harlequin Club)

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A scene from the show. (Harlequin Club)

Featuring iconic musical theatre numbers like “All That Jazz,” “They Both Reached for the Gun,” “Razzle Dazzle,” and “Roxie,” the production showcases the signature style and
choreography inspired by Bob Fosse’s legendary work.

“Chicago is a thrilling showcase of our students’ range, discipline, and artistry. What audiences will see on stage is the result of extraordinary dedication, collaboration, and professionalism from performers, musicians, designers, and crew alike. CB West students continually demonstrate that high school theatre can rival the energy and quality of any stage,” said director and producer Claudine Piechotta.

"Chicago: Teen Edition" has been thoughtfully adapted to remove overtly sexual references and adult language. While the production contains mature themes consistent with the original story, it remains suitable for audiences ages 13 and over.

A courtroom scene. (Harlequin Club)

“Chicago remains strikingly relevant because it explores society’s fascination with celebrity, public perception, and the stories we choose to believe,” said Piechotta. "Though rooted
in the Roaring Twenties, its themes of image, influence, and identity feel unmistakably modern.”

Performance Schedule

The “Bee’s Knees” cast of Regan Gnutti as Roxie Hart and Lyla Jimenez as Velma Kelly performs on Thursday, March 26, at 7 p.m and Saturday, March 28, at 7 p.m.

The “Cat’s Pajamas” cast of Julia McCarty as Roxie Hart and Nora Kushnier as Velma Kelly performs Friday, March 27, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 29, at 2 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now at our.show/harlequinchicago

The Harlequin Club is Central Bucks West High School’s Drama Club under the direction of Claudine Piechotta. The club is a recognized Gold Honor Troupe (2115) and a proud member of
the International Thespian Honor Society. Each season, the Harlequin Club presents two full-length musicals and a play on the main stage, along with student-directed productions, cabarets, and additional performances throughout the year. The organization is also a proud participant in the Philadelphia Independence Awards, earning consistent recognition for excellence in high school theatre.

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