Razzle Dazzle (from the musical Chicago): SATB Choral Octavo

Shackley's arrangement captures the swagger and theatrical punch of the original while making the part-writing genuinely singable for mixed ensembles. The included staging directions mean you can build a performance concept right into the octavo, and the swing-time groove gives your singers something immediate and fun to latch onto. Having both instrumental parts and recorded accompaniment available makes this work whether you're running it solo or as a full production number.

Sultry, confident, and unapologetically theatrical. The arrangement crackles with the energy of a Chicago razzmatazz number while keeping enough harmonic sophistication to hold audience attention. From the first phrase, singers feel the pulse of a jazz ensemble even when singing purely choral lines.

Choirs looking for a contemporary Broadway feature with real theatrical presence and recognizable material. This works equally well for show choirs, community theater ensembles, concert choirs building a jazz or pop section, or groups preparing a cabaret-style program.

• Balance the rhythm section and ensemble carefully in rehearsal; the accompaniment tracks can mask intonation issues in your altos and tenors, so sing through the arrangement unaccompanied regularly.
• Treat the syncopation as character work, not just rhythmic complexity. The song demands attitude and swagger, so cue your singers to commit to the phrasing and not apologize for the syncopated lines.
• If you're using the staged version, block movement during sectional rehearsals rather than during full run-throughs; this prevents the arrangement from becoming secondary to staging logistics.
• Keep the tempo consistent and energized. This piece thrives on forward momentum, and any dragging in the swing rhythm will deflate the whole number.

Program this as a standalone feature or as the centerpiece of a Broadway or musical theater medley. It pairs well with other Kander material or with jazz-influenced pop arrangements that share its rhythmic vocabulary. If you're planning a spring show choir concert or a pops program, this gives you instant production value without requiring full orchestration.

• Swing rhythm and syncopated phrasing in a jazz-influenced context
• Coordinate part independence while maintaining ensemble cohesion
• Theatrical interpretation and character-driven performance choices
• Balance between text clarity and legit choral tone in a popular music idiom