Chicago is a renowned Broadway musical set in the 1920s, exploring themes of crime, corruption, and celebrity culture. Known for its sharp satire, captivating jazz-infused score, and Fosse-inspired choreography, it follows two vaudevillian murderesses fighting for fame. If you’re considering watching Chicago shows in New York, read this guide on the musical’s story, cast, costumes, set, musical score, venue, schedule, reviews, and more. Also, remember to buy Chicago Broadway theater tickets in NYC from visitNYC.
Story Overview
Chicago is a renowned American musical that first captivated audiences with its unique tale of crime, corruption, and showbiz. The story, set in the 1920s, is a satirical take on the criminal justice system and the concept of celebrity criminality. It revolves around two main characters, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, both of whom are aspiring performers who find themselves entangled in murder trials.
Roxie Hart, a housewife with dreams of becoming a vaudeville star, finds herself in jail after killing her lover, Fred Casely, in a fit of rage. Her story begins with a desperate attempt to frame her husband, Amos, for the murder. However, her scheme unravels, leading to her arrest. In jail, Roxie meets Velma Kelly, a vaudevillian who has also been accused of murder. Velma is in jail for killing her husband and sister after finding them together.
The Cook County Jail, run by the corrupt Matron ‘Mama’ Morton, becomes a hotbed of scandal. Mama Morton has a particular fondness for Roxie and Velma, helping them navigate their legal battles in exchange for financial favors. The two women compete for the attention of Billy Flynn, a slick, high-profile lawyer known for his ability to manipulate the media and public opinion.
Billy Flynn takes on Roxie’s case, transforming her into a media sensation. He crafts a sympathetic and sensational narrative, portraying Roxie as a victim of circumstance. This media frenzy turns Roxie into a celebrity, much to Velma’s distress. Velma, once the star of the press, finds herself overshadowed by Roxie’s newfound fame. The rivalry between Roxie and Velma intensifies as they both seek the spotlight and public sympathy.
Throughout the musical, the themes of manipulation, ambition, and the blurred lines between fame and infamy are explored. In the end, both Roxie and Velma are acquitted, but their fleeting fame quickly fades. They realize that in the world of show business and crime, nothing is permanent. The musical concludes with Roxie and Velma teaming up to finally achieve their dreams of stardom in a morally ambiguous and satirical manner.
Cast Information
Chicago on Broadway has an exceptional cast. Here are the current actors gracing the stage at the Ambassador Theatre in New York.
- Ariana Madixas Roxie Hart
- Amra-Faye Wrightas Velma Kelly
- Ryan Silvermanas Billy Flynn
- Natasha Yvette Williamsas Matron ‘Mama’ Morton
- Red Concepciónas Amos Hart
- Max Von Essenas Billy Flynn
- Loweas Mary Sunshine
These talented actors bring an enduring appeal to Chicago in New York, ensuring its place as a Broadway favorite.
Venue Details
The Ambassador Theatre, located in New York City, is a historic venue renowned for hosting the long-running musical Chicago. With its elegant design and prime location, it offers an immersive theater experience. The theater’s rich history and classic architecture make it a fitting stage for the timeless performances of Chicago in New York.
Reviews
Critics have praised the Chicago show in New York for its outstanding choreography, which pays homage to the legendary Bob Fosse. The stylish dance numbers, such as ‘All That Jazz’ and ‘Cell Block Tango,’ are executed with precision, showcasing the cast’s exceptional talent. These routines, combined with the jazz-infused score, create an electric atmosphere that leaves audiences enthralled from start to finish.
The performances of the current cast have garnered significant acclaim. Ariana Madix, as Roxie Hart, brings charm to her role, earning high praise for her portrayal. Amra-Faye Wright’s portrayal of Velma Kelly is lauded for its fierce and magnetic presence, making her a standout performer in this production. Ryan Silverman, as the slick lawyer Billy Flynn, delivers a charismatic and cunning performance that perfectly encapsulates the character’s manipulative nature.
Audiences have also noted the enduring relevance of Chicago’s themes, particularly its commentary on the media’s role in shaping public perception and the fleeting nature of fame. The satirical take on the justice system and the concept of celebrity criminality resonate strongly, making Chicago not only an entertaining spectacle but also a thought-provoking experience.
Music
The musical score of Chicago features a blend of jazz, vaudeville, and razzle-dazzle tunes that perfectly capture the spirit of the 1920s. Here is a list of the songs.
- “Overture”— An instrumental opening that sets the Jazz Age tone.
- “All That Jazz” — Velma Kelly’s opening number celebrating the glamor of showbiz.
- “Funny Honey”— Roxie’s ode to her husband, Amos.
- “Cell Block Tango” — The Merry Murderesses share their crime stories.
- “When You’re Good to Mama”— Matron Morton explains her philosophy.
- “All I Care About” — Billy Flynn’s declaration of superficial values.
- “A Little Bit of Good”— Mary Sunshine’s optimistic outlook.
- “We Both Reached for the Gun”— Billy manipulates the press with Roxie.
- “Roxie” — Roxie Hart dreams of stardom.
- “I Can’t Do It Alone”— Velma’s plea for a double act.
- “My Own Best Friend”— Roxie and Velma vow independence.
- “Entr’acte”— Instrumental transition between acts.
- “I Know a Girl”— Velma reminisces about a fellow performer.
- “Me and My Baby”— Roxie’s fantasy of motherhood.
- “Mister Cellophane”— Amos’s mourning about being ignored.
- “When Velma Takes the Stand”— Velma envisions her courtroom performance.
- “Razzle Dazzle” — Billy Flynn’s commentary on legal theatrics.
- “Class” — Velma and Mama Morton complain about the decline of standards.
- “Nowadays” — Roxie and Velma perform a vaudeville act.
- “Hot Honey Rag”— A lively dance number by Roxie and Velma.
- “Finale” — A reprise of‘Nowadays’ and ‘Hot Honey Rag,’ concluding the show with high energy.
Costumes and Set
The costumes of the Chicago show in the NYC theater are iconic and reflect the glitz of the 1920s. Designed by the legendary William Ivey Long, they are known for their sleek, black, and often revealing designs that emphasize the show’s sultry atmosphere.
The set of Chicago is minimalist yet effective, designed to keep the focus on the performances and the story. The orchestra is placed prominently on stage, allowing the music to be a central feature. The production uses minimal props, relying on a few key pieces like chairs and ladders to create different settings.
Awards
Chicago has gathered numerous prestigious awards since its Broadway revival in 1996. It won significantly at the 1997 Tony Awards, winning six awards including Best Revival of a Musical, Best Choreography for Ann Reinking, and Best Lighting Design for Ken Billington. The musical’s standout performances also earned James Naughton a Tony for Best Actor in a Musical and Bebe Neuwirth a Tony for Best Actress in a Musical.
In addition to its Tony success, Chicago won the Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album in 1998, further solidifying its status as a theatrical masterpiece. The show’s international productions have also been recognized, winning Laurence Olivier Awards in London. With its charm and critical acclaim, Chicago continues to be celebrated as one of Broadway’s most iconic and beloved musicals.
Run Length and Schedule
The musical Chicago at the Ambassador Theatre in New York runs for 2 hours and 30 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. It has a consistent schedule that allows audiences to catch the show throughout the week.
Weekly Schedule
- Monday: 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: No performance
- Thursday:7:00 PM
- Friday:8:00 PM
- Saturday:2:30 PM and 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
Food and Beverage Options
The Ambassador Theatre has several food and beverage options available. You can get drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), candy, and a range of snacks. However, only bottled water is allowed to be taken to the seats.
