Opened: November 14, 1996
Music by: John Kander
Lyrics by: Fred Ebb
Broadway Revival Cast: Ann Reinking, Bebe Neuwirth, Joel Grey, James Naughton, Marcia Lewis, D. Sabella-Mills, Michael Berresse, Jim Borstelmann, Caitlin Carter, Bruce Anthony Davis, Mamie Duncan-Gibbs, Denise Faye, David Warren Gibson, Michael Kubala, Mary Ann Lamb, John Mineo, Tina Paul, Rocker Verastique & Leigh Zimmerman
This revival of Chicago has earned many achievements in its run. It’s the second longest-running Broadway show of all-time, Broadway’s longest-running revival, the longest-running show to have premiered on Broadway, and Broadway’s longest-running American show.
When Roxie Hart (Ann Reinking) kills her lover (Michael Berresse), she’s taken to jail where she meets her idol, vaudevillian Velma Kelly (Bebe Neuwirth). The two soon fight for the public spotlight and attention from their attorney Billy Flynn (James Naughton).
This show is legendary, but is much less intriguing than its onstage companion. The first couple songs go one right into the next with little to no dialogue in between.
The lack of a set due to the band being on stage is disappointing as well. However, the choreography is sharp and oozes with sex appeal.
Final say: Watch the movie instead. ★★★☆☆