High-school performers took center stage the week of Dec. 3 for “Chicago: Teen Edition” at the Lindenwold Moose Lodge.
The ensemble production by the GHVS Players was directed by Voorhees Art Commission advisor Gabby Horvitz, who said the show had been a long-time goal for the program. “Chicago: Teen Edition,” she said, requires precision, confidence, discipline and trust, qualities she felt the cast had finally developed.
“This group was ready for the challenge,” Horvitz noted. “They’re strong movers, thoughtful actors and team-oriented performers. It felt like the perfect moment for them to step into something bold and stylized, and they truly rose to it.”
Working with a teen cast shaped the rehearsal process, with as much emphasis on growth as on the final performance. Horvitz explained that rehearsals in part focused on building a foundation in the technique of the late dance genius Bob Fosse, who choreographed the original production of “Chicago.”
Rather than rushing, the cast learned to work together, supporting each other as a team. That strong ensemble focus set “Chicago: Teen Edition” apart. Horvitz explained that every performer on stage mattered, as did clean lines, clear storytelling and consistent energy.
Horvitz was especially proud of the cast’s growth throughout the process, including students Emma Margolis, Idleanna Torres, Maya Shull and Veronica James, who portrayed the iconic roles of Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart. Many of the performers have worked with Horvitz since middle school and are now high-school juniors and seniors.
“Watching them step into these demanding roles with confidence, discipline and leadership was incredibly rewarding,” Horvitz recalled. “They helped set the tone in the rehearsal room and lifted up the entire ensemble.”
Torres said part of playing Roxie was exploring the character’s ambition and vulnerability.
“I love Roxie’s dedication and the way she manipulates situations to her advantage,” Torres said. “It’s fun to explore how she navigates fame, crime and vulnerability.”
Torres said mastering Fosse’s dance techniques – highly stylized and demanding – was the biggest challenge of the show. But despite that, she found the experience rewarding and memorable, especially sharing late-night rehearsals and meaningful moments with her castmates.
“This show taught me a lot about drive and leadership,” Torres emphasized. “It pushed me to set an example, work hard and never quit.”
Horvitz wanted audiences to be left inspired by what young performers can achieve when challenged.
“This show was about discipline, teamwork and leaning into something different,” she pointed out. “Most of all, it reminded people of the magic that happens when passion and hard work come together.
“All that jazz.”
