Chicago The Musical is one of the longest-running shows on Broadway, captivating audiences with its sultry jazz, razzle-dazzle performances, and compelling tale of crime, fame, and justice. Set in the 1920s, Chicago tells the story of two murderesses, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, as they navigate the corrupt criminal justice system while vying for the spotlight. The show is a stunning combination of Bob Fosse’s iconic choreography, catchy jazz tunes by John Kander and Fred Ebb, and a sharp, satirical storyline that has made it a Broadway favorite for decades.
Here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing Chicago on Broadway.
Overview of Chicago The Musical
- Location: Ambassador Theatre, 219 W 49th St, New York, NY 10019.
- Opening Date: Chicago debuted on Broadway in 1975, and its revival opened in 1996, making it the longest-running American musical in Broadway history.
- Show Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one 15-minute intermission.
- Audience: Recommended for ages 13 and up due to mature themes, including crime and sexuality. Children under 4 are not permitted.
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The Story of Chicago The Musical
Set in the roaring 1920s, Chicago is a darkly humorous tale of fame, scandal, and corruption. The plot follows Roxie Hart, a housewife who dreams of becoming a star, and Velma Kelly, a vaudeville performer, both of whom find themselves imprisoned for murder. They use the media circus surrounding their cases to gain public sympathy, manipulate their way through the legal system, and ultimately compete for the attention of the press and their shared lawyer, Billy Flynn.
- Roxie Hart: A woman who murders her lover in a fit of rage but tries to frame her husband. She uses her charm and wit to manipulate her way out of prison and into fame.
- Velma Kelly: A vaudeville star who killed her husband and sister after catching them in an affair. She is Roxie’s rival both in prison and on the stage.
- Billy Flynn: A slick and cynical lawyer who turns his clients into media darlings to sway public opinion and win their freedom—often at a high financial cost.
The musical’s themes of ambition, deception, and justice are told through a satirical lens, making it a witty, provocative look at society’s obsession with fame and celebrity culture.
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Music in Chicago The Musical
The musical features some of the most memorable and timeless songs in Broadway history, with music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb. The show’s score, inspired by jazz and the music of the 1920s, is an essential part of its identity.
Key Songs in the Show:
- “All That Jazz” – The show’s opening number and one of its most famous songs, performed by Velma Kelly. It sets the tone for the musical’s jazzy, seductive vibe.
- “Cell Block Tango” – A powerful ensemble piece featuring the women of Cook County Jail, who each recount how they murdered their significant others in a series of darkly comic monologues.
- “Roxie” – Performed by Roxie Hart, this song highlights her desire for fame as she imagines herself as a star adored by fans.
- “We Both Reached for the Gun” – A puppet-like number where Billy Flynn manipulates Roxie (literally) to control the media and sway public opinion in her favor.
- “Razzle Dazzle” – Billy Flynn’s show-stopping number about the power of illusion and performance in winning a jury’s favor.
- “Nowadays” – Performed by Roxie and Velma, this finale number captures the cynical theme of the show as they both realize that fame is fleeting, but they must take the spotlight when they can.
The music, combined with the show’s bold choreography, creates an electrifying atmosphere that keeps audiences enthralled from start to finish.
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Choreography and Dance
One of the most iconic aspects of Chicago is its choreography, originally created by the legendary Bob Fosse. Fosse’s signature style—characterized by sharp, angular movements, turned-in knees, jazz hands, and sensuality—is a defining feature of the musical.
Bob Fosse’s Influence
- Fosse’s choreography emphasizes precision and stylized movements, creating a sexy, edgy, and mesmerizing visual experience.
- Numbers like “Cell Block Tango” and “All That Jazz” are famous for their intricate dance sequences and bold, provocative moves that showcase the Fosse style.
The revival’s choreography, which remains true to Fosse’s original work, has become one of the most recognized elements of the show and a major reason for its enduring popularity.
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Creative Team and Cast
Chicago was created by an exceptional team of Broadway legends:
Music: John Kander
- Kander’s jazz-inspired score perfectly captures the sound of the 1920s, with upbeat, sultry tunes that define the mood of each scene.
Lyrics: Fred Ebb
- Ebb’s witty, clever lyrics are sharp and satirical, commenting on society’s fascination with celebrity culture and the justice system.
Original Director/Choreographer: Bob Fosse
- Fosse’s groundbreaking choreography, combined with his direction, shaped the show’s distinctive style. His vision of combining sex appeal, humor, and darkness helped turn Chicago into a Broadway classic.
Current Cast
Chicago has featured many notable stars over the years, and the cast often changes. Some of the most famous performers to have taken on leading roles include:
- Roxie Hart: Renée Zellweger (in the 2002 film adaptation), Brandy Norwood, Pamela Anderson, and Charlotte d’Amboise.
- Velma Kelly: Catherine Zeta-Jones (film), Bebe Neuwirth, and Bianca Marroquín.
- Billy Flynn: Richard Gere (film), Alan Thicke, and Billy Ray Cyrus.
Be sure to check the current cast list when purchasing tickets, as the show frequently features celebrity guest stars.
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Chicago The Musical Tickets and Seating
Ticket Prices
- Ticket prices for Chicago typically range from $49 to $250, depending on the seat location and performance date. Weekends and holidays tend to be more expensive, while weekday matinees offer more affordable options.
- Premium seating, especially for prime-time weekend shows, can be on the higher end of the spectrum.
Where to Buy Tickets
- Tickets can be purchased directly from the Ambassador Theatre box office, on the official Chicago The Musical website, or through authorized ticket sellers like Ticketmaster.
- You can sometimes find discounted tickets on sites like TodayTix or at the TKTS booth in Times Square.
Best Seats
- Orchestra seats: Offer the closest views and an immersive experience, particularly for those who want to see the choreography and facial expressions up close.
- Front Mezzanine: Offers a great view of the entire stage and is ideal for seeing the larger dance numbers and intricate blocking from a wider perspective.
- Rear Mezzanine: More affordable while still offering decent sightlines.
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When to Visit: Best Times and Tips for Booking
Best Time to See the Show
- Weekday Matinees: These shows are generally less crowded and more affordable. If you’re flexible with your schedule, opt for a weekday matinee for the best prices and availability.
- Early Booking: Chicago remains a popular show, so it’s a good idea to book tickets early, especially for weekends, holidays, or celebrity cast appearances.
Rush Tickets and Lotteries
- Chicago often offers rush tickets for day-of performances at a discounted price, available at the box office on a first-come, first-served basis. There may also be lotteries for deeply discounted seats, so check the official website for details.
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What to Expect at the Chicago The Musical
Minimalistic Set Design
One of the distinguishing features of Chicago is its minimal set design. The entire musical takes place on a largely bare stage, with the orchestra visible throughout the show. This decision was intentional, putting the focus on the performers and the choreography, rather than elaborate sets or effects.
Sensational Performances
The musical’s success is largely due to the outstanding performances from its leads and ensemble. The show demands a high level of talent in both singing and dancing, and each performer brings their own flair to the iconic roles.
A Night of Glitz and Glamour
The show’s jazzy music, stunning costumes, and daring choreography create a glamorous, sultry atmosphere that transports audiences to the roaring 1920s. You’ll leave the theater humming the iconic tunes and wanting to revisit the world of Chicago over and over again.
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Dining and Nearby Attractions
The Ambassador Theatre is located in the heart of the Theater District, surrounded by a variety of dining and entertainment options.
Dining Options
- Carmine’s: A classic family-style Italian restaurant located nearby on 44th Street, known for its generous portions.
- Sardi’s: A Broadway staple, Sardi’s is famous for its caricatures of celebrities and classic American cuisine.
- Joe Allen: Another Theater District favorite, Joe Allen serves delicious American comfort food and is often frequented by Broadway stars.
Nearby Attractions
- Times Square: Just a short walk from the theater, Times Square is perfect for exploring after the show.
- Rockefeller Center: Especially festive during the holidays, Rockefeller Center is just a few blocks away and offers ice skating, shopping, and beautiful views of the city.
- Broadway Theaters: If you’re planning to see multiple shows, take a stroll through the Theater District to soak in the vibrant energy of Broadway.
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Tips for Attending Chicago The Musical
- Arrive Early: Be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime to find your seat, as the Theater District can get crowded.
- Dress Comfortably: There’s no formal dress code for Broadway shows, but many theater-goers choose to dress smart-casual for the occasion.
- Stay After the Show: The cast sometimes greets fans at the stage door after the performance, offering a chance to get autographs or take photos.
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Conclusion
Chicago: The Musical on Broadway is a timeless show that combines stunning choreography, unforgettable music, and a sharp satirical edge. Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or a first-time visitor, Chicago offers a glamorous, high-energy experience that captures the essence of Broadway at its best. With its iconic songs, bold performances, and legendary Fosse-style choreography, Chicago remains a must-see show for anyone visiting New York City.
Cover photo: chicagothemusical.com
