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The Kander and Ebb musical about murderesses-turned-overnight-celebrities has razzle-dazzled audiences for decades. With a rotating lineup of stars in the lead roles, you never know who you'll see as starry-eyed housewife Roxie, veteran vaudevillian Velma, and more.

Ages 13+. Children under 4 are not permitted.

Chicago on Broadway - NYC [22]

Genre: Musical (US and AUS)

Chicago on Broadway

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Two women in black outfits perform a dance on stage, posing with one arm raised, in front of a gold and red glittery curtain with star patterns.

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A woman in a sparkly black dress performs a dance on stage with dramatic hand gestures. A saxophone rests on a nearby platform in the background.

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Woman in a black lace dress sits on stage floor, smiling and posing with one hand on the ground and the other on her chest, under dramatic stage lighting.

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Two performers in black costumes on stage; one sits and smiles while the other kneels with arms outstretched in a dramatic pose.

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Two dancers in black costumes stand center stage holding hands, with “CHICAGO” in large lights above them. The stage background is dark, highlighting the performers and the illuminated sign.

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Two performers in black costumes and fishnet stockings dance energetically on stage in front of a red and gold sparkling curtain.

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A woman in a black dress stands smiling beside a man in a tuxedo with a white flower, both on a dimly lit stage.

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Woman in a black lace dress smiles and holds up a newspaper with the headline “ROXIE ROCKS CHICAGO!” on a dark stage.

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A performer in a black lace dress poses against a ladder beside a weathered gold column under a spotlight.

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A performer in a black slip dress throws her head back mid-pose with one arm raised, in red lipstick.

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A tuxedoed performer gestures toward a performer in a black jacket seated on a staircase, the orchestra behind them.

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A performer balances upside-down over the back of a wooden chair, legs extended in the air, in fishnets and tap shoes.

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A group of performers in black outfits strike dramatic poses on stage, with a geometric backdrop and musicians visible in the background.

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Seven dancers in dark costumes sit on chairs under spotlights on a stage, each posed with hands on legs, performing a choreographed routine.

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A group of performers dressed in black dance on stage, with the central performer in a short dress and fishnet stockings, all striking dramatic poses with raised arms.

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Two performers sit on chairs center stage, one in a black suit singing, the other in a black dress and fishnet tights, with a dark background and stage lights above.

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A group of performers in dark costumes strike dramatic poses onstage under colorful red and green lighting.

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Are you ready for all that jazz? *Chicago* on Broadway has brought the razzle dazzle for more than 25 years. Reece Weaver (*America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders*) stars as Roxie Hart through November 15! Get *Chicago* tickets on New York Theatre Guide now and have a killer night at the theatre.

The Chicago musical had its Broadway premiere in 1975, directed and choreographed by Bob Fosse and starring Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera. That production ran for two years. New York City Center's Encores! program for seldom revived musicals mounted a brief concert production in 1996, which transferred to Broadway and is the same production still running today.

The *Chicago* Broadway revival, directed by Walter Bobbie and choreographed by Ann Reinking in Fosse's style, is now the longest-running American Broadway show and longest-running revival in Broadway history. Chicago officially opened at the <a href="/theatres/richard-rodgers-theatre">Richard Rodgers Theatre</a> on November 14, 1996, and it later moved to the <a href="/theatres/shubert-theatre">Shubert Theatre</a> and finally the <a href="/theatres/ambassador-theatre">Ambassador Theatre</a> in January 2003.

Chicago on Broadway was nominated for eight Tony Awards in 1997. The show&nbsp;ultimately won six trophies, including Best Revival of a Musical, Best Choreography, and Best Direction of a Musical. The&nbsp;production's highly stylized costumes as well as its Fosse-inspired choreography have made the musical one of the most widely recognised Broadway shows worldwide.

A Chicago film adaptation was released in 2002, starring Renée Zellweger as Roxie Hart, Catherine Zeta-Jones as Velma Kelly, Richard Gere as Billy Flynn, Queen Latifah as Matron "Mama" Morton, and John C. Reilly as Amos Hart. The film went on to win the Oscar for Best Picture at the 75th Academy Awards, becoming the first movie musical to do so since Oliver! in 1968.

THE CELL BLOCK’S HOT SUMMER LINEUP! 

Broadway favorite __Krysta Rodriguez__ as Roxie Hart through August 16 
Comedian __Matteo Lane__ as Billy Flynn through July 19 
"Dancing with the Stars" champion __Mark Ballas__ as Billy Flynn from July 20–August 16 
K-pop star __Ivy__ as Roxie Hart from August 17–September 6 

## What is the *Chicago* musical about?

Chicago is based on a same-named 1926 play by journalist Maureen Dallas Watkins, who covered real-life trials like Roxie's and Velma's. Step into the Jazz Age at the Chicago musical, about murder, greed, corruption, violence, exploitation, adultery, and treachery — and old-fashioned showbiz and razzle dazzle.

Housewife and aspiring vaudevillian Roxie Hart lands in jail for murdering her lover, and she quickly learns that making headlines is the only way to get acquitted. She and veteran vaudeville star Velma Kelly, a fellow murderess, vie for the attention of the press and a smooth-talking lawyer, Billy Flynn, in this satire of celebrity culture and the justice system.

## Who wrote the *Chicago* musical?

Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse wrote the book for the *Chicago* musical, with Ebb also writing lyrics and John Kander composing the music.

Along with Cabaret, Chicago is often considered as one of the best pieces of musical theatre from the legendary songwriting duo Kander and Ebb. They won the the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album for Chicago, with a jazz-infused score including hits like "Cell Block Tango," "When You're Good to Mama," "Mr. Cellophane," and "Razzle Dazzle."

## Is the *Chicago* musical kid-friendly?

*Chicago* is recommended for ages 13 and up, as the show contains strong language and references to sex and crime throughout.

There's nothing quite like experiencing this sizzling show and musical score live! Get Chicago tickets in New York now.

(Photos by Jeremy Daniel)

With classic songs like “All That Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango,” and “Mr. Cellophane,” *Chicago* has razzle-dazzled audiences with its parade of celebrity headliners and jaw-dropping choreography since 1996, becoming the longest-running show currently on Broadway. A story of murder and mayhem in the 1920s, *Chicago* follows two prison inmates, Roxie and Velma, who plan to use the media frenzy around their crimes to become vaudeville stars. Winner of the Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical, *Chicago* is a New York fixture that is sure to impress. Get *Chicago* tickets on New York Theatre Guide.

Chicago - NYC - New York Theatre Guide

Chicago Broadway Tickets | The Official NY Theatre Guide

See why this second-longest-running Broadway show has razzle-dazzled so many audiences. A scorching satire of celebrity culture with classic Kander and Ebb tunes, *Chicago* shows how two ladies use showbiz pizzazz to get away with murder. Get tickets to witness the criminally fun revival that won six Tony Awards. 

True crime stories are popular nowadays, but the obsession is nothing new. This tale of murderesses in Prohibition-era Chicago is based on a 1926 play, also titled *Chicago*, by former crime journalist Maurine Dallas Watkins. She based her play on two 1920s court cases involving a housewife and cabaret singer, respectively, accused of murdering their husbands. 

The *Chicago* musical, similarly, follows housewife Roxie and vaudevillian Velma, who mimic each other’s publicity stunts and hire the same lawyer in the hopes of making front-page news. It’s the only way to get acquitted, and maybe even make it big.

The original production starred Chita Rivera as Velma and Fosse’s wife, Gwen Verdon, as Roxie and played from 1975 to 1977. The current production, *Chicago*’s first revival, opened in 1996 at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, hopping to the Shubert in 1997 and the Ambassador in 2003. This production has far surpassed the original production’s success and set multiple Broadway records. *Chicago* is the second-longest-running Broadway show of all time, only behind *The Phantom of the Opera*.

*Chicago* borrows heavily from 1920s vaudeville variety shows. These included singers, dancers, acrobats, ventriloquists, and more. Different events in *Chicago* on Broadway — like a trial, a press conference, and even an execution — are staged like these different types of acts. An emcee also introduces the songs as though they were a lineup of vaudeville performances.

## What to watch for

- The *Chicago* musical inspired a 2002 film, which won the 2003 Academy Award for Best Picture. It starred Renée Zellweger as Roxie Hart, Catherine Zeta Jones as Velma Kelly, and Richard Gere as Billy Flynn.
- Watkins wrote her play *Chicago* while at Yale Drama School about her experience as a reporter for the Chicago Tribune. The show was originally called *Brave Little Woman*, and it’s now called *Play Ball* when performed to avoid confusion with the musical.
- The production began as a four-performance concert presentation at New York City Center’s Encores! in May 1996! *Chicago* transferred to Broadway in November that year, and the rest is history!
- Because it was originally a concert, the sets and costumes are minimalist, and the full orchestra plays on stage. The orchestra sits within a golden frame — the same one from the Encores! production that's still in use today.
- Ann Reinking, who replaced Gwen Verdon in the original *Chicago* production and originated Roxie Hart in this one, choreographed the revival “in the style of Fosse.” Fosse was nominated for the Best Choreography Tony for his work on the original, but Reinking won for the revival! The choreography of “Hot Honey Rag” remains intact from the original. 
- The *Chicago* Broadway cast has featured plenty of celebrities, including Usher, Brandy, Taye Diggs, Michael C. Hall, Wayne Brady, Melanie Griffith, Brooke Shields, Ashlee Simpson, Jerry Springer, Patrick Swayze, Sofia Vergara, Rita Wilson, Jamie Camil, NeNe Leakes, Rumer Willis, Todrick Hall, Jennifer Nettles, Pamela Anderson, Angelica Ross, and many more.
- Make eye contact with the ensemble at your own risk, as Fosse famously told the cast in 1975: “Dare the audience to look at you, and then look back at them with murder in your eyes.”

Get *Chicago* tickets on TodayTix now.

## Please Note
Herbal cigarettes are used on stage. The use of cameras, cell phones, and other recording devices during the show is strictly prohibited by law, except when used for accessibility services. No weapons permitted on the premesis. No outside food or beverages, electric scooters, e-bikes, or battery-powered transportation devices, except when medically necessary. All items are subject to inspection and must fit on your lap or completely under your seat without blocking any aisles.

__Audio Described / Captioned Performances__  
Audio description and personal captioning are available on your mobile device by downloading the GalaPro app from Apple or Google. Hand-held devices are available to borrow at the Shubert Audience Services kiosk.

*Chicago* is a musical masterpiece that offers its two lead performers a chance to be triple threats: stellar singers, actors, and dancers. Later becoming a movie musical that won the Oscar for Best Picture, the legendary show is set during the Roaring Twenties and features all the fizz and scandal of that opulent era. That’s all the more impressive as the staging and costumes of this 1996 revival are minimal, allowing the timeless music and dance to shine. The New York Times said the show “remains the best adult entertainment in town and still bubbles with the joy of performing.”

## What to watch for

- *Chicago* is based on a same-named play by Maurine Dallas Watkins, who was inspired by two real-life court cases she covered as a reporter for the Chicago Tribune. The show was originally called *Brave Little Woman*, and it’s now called *Play Ball* when performed to avoid confusion with the musical.
- The original 1975 production starred Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera, so the show has been a landmark for half a century.
- This production began as a four-performance concert presentation as part of New York City Center’s Encores! series before transferring to Broadway.
- Ann Reinking choreographed this revival in the style of Bob Fosse, and she was quite familiar with the material: she starred as Roxie in 1977. Fosse's choreography of “Hot Honey Rag” remains intact.

## Please note

Herbal cigarettes are used on stage. The use of cameras, cell phones, and other recording devices during the show is strictly prohibited by law, except when used for accessibility services. No weapons permitted on the premesis. No outside food or beverages, electric scooters, e-bikes, or battery-powered transportation devices, except when medically necessary. All items are subject to inspection and must fit on your lap or completely under your seat without blocking any aisles.

__Audio Described / Captioned Performances__ 
Audio description and personal captioning are available on your mobile device by downloading the GalaPro app from Apple or Google. Hand-held devices are available to borrow at the Shubert Audience Services kiosk.

Chicago on Broadway [22] - TodayTix

Reece Weaver makes her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in [*Chicago*](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/22-chicago-tickets) at the [Ambassador Theatre](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/venues/ambassador-theatre) from September 7 to November 1, 2026.

Weaver is a former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader and breakout star of the Netflix series *America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders*.

Reece Weaver - NY

reece

Lissa deGuzman stars as Velma Kelly in [*Chicago*](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/22-chicago-tickets) on Broadway at the [Ambassador Theatre](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/venues/ambassador-theatre).

DeGuzman has starred in the national tours of *Wicked* as Elphaba and *Aladdin* as Jasmine, and she later understudied those same roles in the Broadway productions. She made her Broadway debut as an ensemble member and the Ann Darrow alternate in the *King Kong* musical in 2018.

She has toured the world as a vocalist with Disney and performed in concerts and theatre at renowned venues across the country, including Carnegie Hall, The Muny in St. Louis, 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle, and more.

Lissa deGuzman - NY

lissa

Max von Essen stars as Billy Flynn in [*Chicago*](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/22-chicago-tickets) on Broadway at the [Ambassador Theatre](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/venues/ambassador-theatre).

Von Essen's Broadway credits include *An American in Paris,* for which he received a Tony Award nomination; Billy Flynn in [*Chicago*](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/22-chicago-tickets); *Anastasia,* *Les Misérables,* *Evita,* and *Jesus Christ Superstar.* He's also performed in the national tours of *Falsettos* and *Chicago.* 

Max von Essen - NYC 

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NaTasha Yvette Williams stars as Matron "Mama" Morton in [*Chicago*](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/22-chicago-tickets) on Broadway at the [Ambassador Theatre](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/venues/ambassador-theatre).

Williams is a Grammy winner and Tony nominee for playing Sweet Sue in *Some Like It Hot*. Her other credits include [*Wicked*](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/1-wicked-musical-tickets) as Madame Morrible, *Tina: The Tina Turner Musical* as Zelma, *Chicken and Biscuits* as Brianna, *Waitress* as Becky, *Chicago* as Matron "Mama" Morton, *A Night with Janis Joplin* as Aretha/Joplinaire, *Porgy and Bess* as Mariah, and *The Color Purple* as Sofia.

NaTasha Yvette Williams - NYC 

natasha

Red Concepción stars as Amos Hart in [*Chicago*](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/22-chicago-tickets) at the [Ambassador Theatre](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/venues/ambassador-theatre). Concepción has played multiple stints as Amos in the show, which marked his Broadway debut in 2024, and he also originated the role of The Engineer on the 2018 national tour of *Miss Saigon*.

Red Concepción - NY

The Ambassador Theatre is a quintessential landmark venue situated in the heart of Times Square in New York City. The theatre, built in a unique diagonal orientation to fit within a corner property, opened in 1921 and has since been a stoić stalwart in the midst of the bustling city life. The beautifully ornated structure with its grand interiors and elegant façade captures the essence of old New York charm. With a seating capacity of 1125, the theatre provides an intimate and immersive theatrical experience. Ambassador Theatre has been the venue for numerous historically and culturally significant productions, including 'Chicago,' not only gaining it popularity but also cementing its position as a paragon in the New York theatre scene.

## How to get to the Venue
The Ambassador Theatre is easily accessible by public transport. The closest subway stations are 49th Street (N, R, and W lines), and 50th Street (1 and 2 lines). An alternate option is to take the C or E line to 50th Street. The theatre is also reachable by several bus lines such as M7, M20, M50, or M104. For attendees driving, numerous public parking spaces are available in and around Times Square.

Ambassador Theatre - NY

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Ambassador Theatre

Designed by Herbert J. Krapp, the Ambassador Theatre opened on February 11, 1921 under the ownership of the Shubert Organization with a production of the musical *The Rose Girl*. The Shuberts eventually sold the property in 1935, and it was turned into a cinema and television studio for NBC as well as the DuMont Television Network.

The venue was renamed the Ambassador Tele-Theatre until 1956, when the Shuberts reclaimed ownership and reinstated the building as a Broadway theatre. The Ambassador Theatre has been designated a New York City landmark for preservation.

## How to get to the Ambassador Theatre on Broadway

On the subway, take the C, E, or 1 line to 50th Street. The Ambassador Theatre is located a block away at 49th Street and Broadway.

Additionally, the Ambassador is located near various bus stops: 7th Ave/W 50th St. on the M7, M20, and M104 lines; 8th Ave./W 49th St. on the M20 and M104 lines; and 7th Ave/W 49th St. on the M50 line.

## Restaurants near the Ambassador Theatre

Popular restaurants located within a block of the Ambassador Theatre include The Palm steakhouse, Serafina (Italian), P.S. Kitchen (American), and Junior's Restaurant (American). [Learn more about pre- and post-show restaurants in the Theatre District.](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/theatre-news/news/where-to-eat-before-and-after-a-broadway-show)

Ambassador Theatre - New York Theatre Guide

Step into the historic Ambassador Theatre, home to the iconic musical Chicago since 1996. Get your tickets today and experience a record-breaking Broadway classic.

Ambassador Theatre - TodayTix

Diagram of a theater seating chart with labeled rows for Orchestra and Mezzanine sections facing the stage at the top.

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The Ambassador Theatre, an iconic venue in Times Square, New York, is known for its unique architecture and historic productions.

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How did the Wicked Witch of the West become wicked? This *Wizard of Oz* prequel musical explores her and Glinda the Good Witch's untold origin stories. Hear now-classic showtunes like "Defying Gravity" at Broadway's fourth-longest-running show.

Ages 8+. Children under 5 will not be admitted.

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