“Chicago the Musical” is a dazzling blend of crime, jazz, and showbiz that has captivated audiences worldwide since its inception. With its origins in the Prohibition-era of the 1920s, the musical offers a satirical look at corruption within the criminal justice system and the concept of the “celebrity criminal.”
The Origins and Evolution of “Chicago”
“Chicago” began as a 1926 play written by reporter Maurine Dallas Watkins, who based the story on actual criminals and crimes she reported on. In 1975, the play was transformed into a Broadway musical by the legendary team of John Kander (music), Fred Ebb (lyrics), and Bob Fosse (book and choreography). Fosse’s influence is unmistakable, with his distinctive, sultry dance style becoming a hallmark of the production.
The original Broadway production ran for 936 performances, but it was the 1996 Broadway revival that solidified “Chicago” as a timeless classic. This revival, choreographed by Ann Reinking in the style of Fosse, has become the longest-running American musical in Broadway history.
Plot Summary
Set in the razzle-dazzle world of 1920s Chicago, the musical follows Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who dreams of fame. When she murders her lover, she initially convinces her husband, Amos, to take the blame, but the truth soon comes out. Roxie finds herself in Cook County Jail, where she meets Velma Kelly, a vaudeville star facing similar charges. Both women vie for the attention of the slick, manipulative lawyer Billy Flynn, who turns their trials into media spectacles.
Critical Acclaim and Reviews
“Chicago” has been lauded for its sharp wit, jazzy score, and striking choreography. Critics have praised its timeless appeal and the depth of its satirical edge. For in-depth reviews and audience reactions, LondonTheatre1 offers a treasure trove of insights. Notably, the 1996 Broadway revival and subsequent West End productions have received overwhelmingly positive feedback for their high-energy performances and faithful adherence to Fosse’s original vision.
Interviews with the Cast and Creative Team
The allure of “Chicago” extends beyond its storyline, reaching into the experiences of its cast and creative team. Interviews with stars such as Ann Reinking, Bebe Neuwirth, and more recent performers provide a glimpse into the rigorous preparation and passion that goes into each performance. On LondonTheatre1, you can find interviews that explore the nuances of their roles and the enduring legacy of the musical.
Notable Performances
Over the years, “Chicago” has seen a parade of talent gracing its stage, from Broadway to the West End and beyond. Stars like Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger, and Richard Gere brought the story to life in the 2002 film adaptation, further cementing its place in popular culture. On stage, numerous celebrities have donned the roles of Roxie, Velma, and Billy Flynn, bringing fresh interpretations and star power to the production.
London’s West End has been a significant venue for “Chicago,” with performances that continue to draw enthusiastic crowds.
Chicago is an unstoppable juggernaut and it’s just a wonderful theatrical happening that every lover of musicals should experience at least once in their lifetime. Chicago the Musical at New Wimbledon Theatre Alan Fitter (2022).
This revival uses the original set (John Lee Beatty), evocative lighting (Ken Billington) and well-balanced, never overwhelming sound (Rick Clarke) designs, so potential audiences need not feel that they are being short-changed by seeing a touring production: it is every bit as good as one would see in London’s West End. Chicago The Musical at Churchill Theatre, Bromley. John Groves (2021).
The orchestra, directed by Ian Townsend, is on stage throughout. They were utterly delightful to watch and listen to. Amos Hart (Paul Rider) provides the most endearing number in the whole show, ‘Mister Cellophane’, eliciting the most audible sympathetic responses from the audience, with every justification. Chicago at London Phoenix Theatre. Chris Omaweng (2018).
Interview with Robin Cousins Billy Flynn in Chicago The Musical
Interview with Russell Whitehead: Chicago The Musical
Interview with Jasna Ivir: Mama Morton in Chicago the Musical
Interview with Amra-Faye Wright: Velma Kelly in Chicago The Musical
Interview with Rachel Muldoon from the cast of Chicago The Musical
Interview with Andrew Corcoran: Assistant Musical Director with Chicago
Interview with Leigh Zimmerman
Conclusion
“Chicago the Musical” remains a beacon of theatrical brilliance, combining sharp satire, stunning choreography, and unforgettable music. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its powerful storytelling and the universal themes of ambition, corruption, and the quest for fame.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the jazz-infused world of “Chicago,” this musical promises an experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, continuing to shine brightly on stages around the globe.
CHICAGO UK TOUR – 2024/2025
UK AND IRELAND TOUR LISTINGS
12 – 19 OCTOBER 2024
CHICAGO at MILTON KEYNES THEATRE
21 – 26 OCTOBER 2024
ALHAMBRA THEATRE, BRADFORD
https://www.bradford-theatres.co.uk/alhambra-theatre
28 OCTOBER –2 NOVEMBER 2024
THEATRE ROYAL, NEWCASTLE
https://www.theatreroyal.co.uk/
4 – 9 NOVEMBER 2024
CHICAGO at PALACE THEATRE, MANCHESTER
11 – 16 NOVEMBER 2024
ORCHARD THEATRE, DARTFORD
https://trafalgartickets.com/orchard-theatre-dartford/en-GB
19 – 23 NOVEMBER 2024
MAYFLOWER THEATRE, SOUTHAMPTON
https://www.mayflower.org.uk/
25 – 30 NOVEMBER 2024
STOKE REGENT THEATRE
2025
14 – 18 JANUARY 2025
HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE, ABERDEEN
https://www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/
20 – 25 JANUARY 2025
CHELTENHAM EVERYMAN
https://www.everymantheatre.org.uk/
28 JANUARY – 1 FEBRUARY 2025
SHEFFIELD LYCEUM
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/
4 – 8 FEBRUARY 2025
CHICAGO at EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE
10 – 15 FEBRUARY 2025
CHICAGO at LIVERPOOL EMPIRE
24 FEBRUARY – 1 MARCH 2025
CHICAGO at OXFORD NEW THEATRE
3 – 8 MARCH 2025
SOUTHEND CLIFFS PAVILION
https://trafalgartickets.com/cliffs-pavilion-southend/en-GB/southend-theatres
11 – 15 MARCH 2025
BORD GAIS ENERGY THEATRE, DUBLIN
https://www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie/
17 – 22 MARCH 2025
GRAND OPERA HOUSE, BELFAST
https://www.goh.co.uk/
31 MARCH – 5 APRIL 2025
BOURNEMOUTH PAVILION
https://www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk/
7 – 12 APRIL 2025
NOTTINGHAM ROYAL CONCERT HALL
https://trch.co.uk/
14 – 19 APRIL 2025
CHICAGO at BIRMINGHAM ALEXANDRA THEATRE
21 – 26 APRIL 2025
HALL FOR CORNWALL, TRURO
https://www.hallforcornwall.co.uk/
29 APRIL – 3 MAY 2025
VENUE CYMRU, LLANDUDNO
https://www.venuecymru.co.uk/
5 – 10 MAY 2025
WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE, CARDIFF
https://www.wmc.org.uk/en
19 – 24 MAY 2025
CHICAGO at BRISTOL HIPPODROME
9 – 14 JUNE 2025
CHICAGO at NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE
16 – 21 JUNE 2025
LEICESTER CURVE
https://www.curveonline.co.uk/
23- 28 JUNE 2025
WOLVERHAMPTON GRAND THEATRE
https://www.grandtheatre.co.uk/
30 JUNE – 5 JULY 2025
HULL NEW THEATRE
https://www.hulltheatres.co.uk/
7 – 12 JULY 2025
CONGRESS THEATRE, EASTBOURNE
https://www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk/venue/congress-theatre
14 – 19 JULY 2025
NORWICH THEATRE ROYAL
https://norwichtheatre.org/
21 – 26 JULY 2025
BLACKPOOL WINTER GARDENS
https://www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk/our-venues/large-venues/opera-house/
28 JULY – 2 AUGUST 2025
CHICAGO at NEW VICTORIA THEATRE, WOKING
4 – 9 AUGUST 2025
CHICAGO at SUNDERLAND EMPIRE
11 – 16 AUGUST 2025
HAWTH CRAWLEY
https://www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/the-hawth
18 – 23 AUGUST 2025
CHICAGO at KING’S THEATRE, GLASGOW
Last Updated on June 26, 2025
