The long-running musical “Chicago” celebrated its 22nd anniversary since its Broadway revival premiere on November 14, 1996. Having surpassed 9,131 performances, it remains the second-longest-running show in Broadway history. To mark this milestone, here’s a look at the current cast, must-hear songs, and the musical’s continuing legacy.
“Chicago” continues its Broadway run since 1996
Set in 1920s Prohibition-era Chicago, “Chicago” follows the scandalous rise of Roxie Hart through fame, crime, and jazz. The 1996 Broadway revival won six Tony Awards including Best Revival of a Musical, Best Choreography, and Best Direction. Its popularity soared even further with the 2002 film adaptation, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture and the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture (Musical or Comedy). “Chicago” continues to define the spirit of Broadway today.
Famous musical numbers from “Chicago”
Choreography by the legendary Bob Fosse
The original choreography for “Chicago” was created by the legendary Bob Fosse, winner of eight Tony Awards for Best Choreography. Starting his career at just 15, Fosse received five consecutive Tony nominations from 1955 to 1959, winning three. In the 1960s he earned another five nominations, and at the 27th Tony Awards (1973) he won both Best Direction and Best Choreography for “Pippin.” Three years later, at the 30th Tony Awards (1976), he achieved an unprecedented triple win for “Chicago” – Best Book, Best Direction, and Best Choreography. He also won the Academy Award for Best Director for the film “Cabaret.” Below are some of his most iconic “Chicago” numbers still performed today.
All That Jazz
The show’s signature opening number, led by Velma Kelly, combines smoky vocals with sultry choreography that perfectly sets the tone for the entire musical.
Cell Block Tango
Performed by six women imprisoned for murdering their lovers, this bold and rhythmic number combines tango beats and fierce storytelling to powerful effect.
Roxie
This charming solo captures Roxie Hart’s delusional rise to fame — playful, jazzy, and irresistibly self-absorbed.
Nowadays
Appearing near the finale, this duet between Roxie and Velma begins wistfully and crescendos into a dazzling celebration of survival and fame.
Current Broadway cast of “Chicago”
“Chicago” has long been considered a gateway for rising Broadway stars. Many international performers have made their Broadway debuts through this production before launching global careers. Notably, Japanese actress Ryoko Yonekura became the first Japanese performer to star as Roxie Hart on Broadway, appearing in both 2012 and 2017. Below are key members of the current cast.
Velma Kelly – Amra-Faye Wright
Born August 22, 1960 – South AfricaRecognized as the definitive Velma Kelly, Amra-Faye Wright has performed the role continuously since 2001 – an incredible 17-year run. She has also led international productions, including London’s West End and a Japanese engagement in 2010 performed in Japanese. Fans around the world travel to New York just to see her performance.
Roxie Hart – Bianca Marroquín
Born January 15, 1975 – MexicoBianca Marroquín first played Roxie Hart in 2003 and returned for her second engagement in 2018. In Mexico, she has starred in major productions such as “Mary Poppins,” “In the Heights,” and “The Pajama Game,” and is also a celebrated television actress and recording artist.
Billy Flynn – Cuba Gooding Jr.
Born January 2, 1968 – United StatesAcademy Award-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr. joined “Chicago” as Billy Flynn for a limited run from October 6 to November 18, 2018. Known for over 50 film credits since 1988, he made his Broadway debut in “The Trip to Bountiful” and even hosted the 2013 Tony Awards. His appearance brought major Hollywood buzz to the production.
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