Yavapai County’s cultural life is rebounding, as pandemic restrictions ease and residents rediscover their old haunts. But for the those entrusted with the care of a sick or disabled loved one, such outings remain few and far between. This week, Yavapai College seeks to honor local caregivers and their charges with a special, accessible performance of their spring musical, Chicago, Wednesday, April 13 at 7 p.m.

“This is a free performance,” YCPAC Managing Director of Operations Helen Stephenson explained, “and we hope people who’ve been hesitant to attend a live performance will come with family and friends.” As always, hearing assistance devices will be available in the theater. The Wednesday show will also feature captioning and additional space for wheelchairs. “This is a safe place. If you, or your loved one suffers from Tourette’s or dementia, or just needs to get up and walk around every few minutes, we will be able to accommodate that.”

Chicago’s actors will be ready to offer a show that embraces any adjustments that caregivers and those that they assist may require. “This accessible performance will give the actors an experience of continuing to stay on track with their performances even if there are distractions.” Stephenson said.

Stephenson says Chicago’s Caregiver performance reflects YCPAC’s desire to serve an often-overlooked population. “These are generous, hard-working people we’ve been trying to reach for some time. This [performance] is our first attempt and we hope those who attend will let us know what we could do better, as we explore more accessible performances in the YCPAC.”

Recent generations may know Chicago from the 2002 movie adaptation that won Oscar nominations for Rene Zellweger, Richard Gere, and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Others may recall the 1996 stage revival featuring Ann Reinking and Bebe Neuwirth, or even the groundbreaking 1975 Broadway premiere that immortalized Gwen Verdon, Chita Rivera, and Director and Choreographer Bob Fosse. Known for its inventive, circus-like staging and unforgettable numbers like “Razzle Dazzle,” “Cell Block Tango,” and “All That Jazz” – Chicago is a darkly funny, jazz-infused riff on politics, the legal system and celebrity culture.

Chicago’s Caregiver Performance will be offered free of charge, Wednesday April 13, at 7 p.m. at Yavapai College Performing Arts Center, 1100 E. Sheldon Street, in Prescott. For reservations or more information, please call the YCPAC Ticket Office at (928) 776-2000.