Hot, hot, hot is the only way to describe the Willows production of Chicago, currently playing through June 4 at the Campbell Cabaret in Martinez.

From the opening All That Jazz through Cell Block Tango to the shows closing number Nowadays, this production will have you swaying with the beat and, possibly, fanning yourself to get relief from the heat emanating from the stage. Artistic Director Eric Inman, who directs this production, has pulled together a tight, highly polished show with some knockout talent and steamy choreography by LaTonya Watts.

Nicole Helfer (Val) simply burns up the stage with her dance moves (how can anyone be that limber!) and her sultry voice. She is well matched by the lovely Kerry Wininger (Roxie), a lethal combination of a sweet coquette and deadly ambition. Mark Farrell (Billy Flinn) uses his innate showmanship to bring out the most in this sleazy lawyer — a very different attorney than the one he played in the Willows production of Judgment at Nuremburg a few years back. What a treat to be able to hear Michelle Ianiro belt out bluesy numbers as Mama Morton while Isaiah Tryelle showed his dancing acumen and acting versatility in two very different roles. I wish there was room to name the entire cast because they all delivered sizzling performances. But I would be remise if I didnt mention the great music produced by musical director/pianist Rachel Robinson with