Donning outfits straight from The Roaring '20s, the actors of Dartmouth Theatre Company danced their way through a springtime production of “Chicago the Musical.”

Based on sensational newspaper coverage from the ‘20s, the musical follows murderesses Roxie Hart and Velma Kelley as they strive for fame and freedom.

The play was cast around mid-January with practices beginning soon after. Students practiced twice a week, working with choreographer Kathy Gaspar. The Dartmouth High production, which ran from April 30 to May 2, featured 31 cast members, a majority of which required both singing and dancing.

“We were looking for a particular voice that can fit the character,” said Shirley Guerreiro, who co-directed the show with Denis Lawrence Jr. “‘Chicago’ is mostly an ensemble piece, but Velma and Roxie have to be strong dancers and singers, so basically the triple threat.”

Alyssa Maitoza, 15, and Abby Rego, 16, who played Velma and Roxie respectively, have been participating in theater for about a decade and couldn’t be further from their “Chicago” counterparts. In real life, they are best friends.

“I love being able to step into a completely different person and escape from myself,” said Maitoza. “She gets what she wants. She is out for herself. It’s fun to transition into that character.”

Rego, a dancer with 10 years of experience, said the role required a lot of stamina and practice, but the work was well worth it because it meant she could play her dream role.

The play engendered a sense of community and teamwork among the cast. Jack Kenney, 18, who played Roxie’s husband, Amos Hart, said actors learn their cues through working together.

“It’s a lot of us covering for one another if we make mistakes or knowing each others’ lines to help each other out,” said Kenney. “It’s a lot of trust.”

Patrick Kitchen, 16, who played lawyer Billy Flynn, felt he has gotten a lot of being part of the Dartmouth Theatre Company.

“The theater department has given me so much over the years — a great circle of friends and the opportunity to perform on stage and share the gift of live theater with the community,” said Kitchen. “It’s been an honor.”