Chicago – The Musical at Ambassador Theatre

Inspired by the 1926 play written by Maurine Dallas Watkins, Chicago is one of the most legendary performances of all times. The production delves into the extremes humans reach for power and influence.

characters

Including leading roles such as Roxie Hart, Velma Kelly, Billy Flynn, Matron "Mama" Morton, and others, the show revolves around corruption, betrayal, ambition, and the dark side of fame. Chicago was inspired by a play of the identical name of Maurine Dallas Watkins, which was inspired by real-life events.

storyline

The story begins with Roxie, a young and ambitious vaudeville dancer, who murders her lover "Fred Casely" after he refuses to help her with her vaudeville ambitions, and dismissing their relationship. The story unfolds, and Roxie becomes aware of the fame she has attracted as a female criminal. Like Roxie's desire to escape her mundane life, through time Chicago will showcase countless like-minded individuals, with the same or similar intentions. Among them is Velma, an veteran, confident, sharp-minded, and competitive vaudeville sensation who murdered her partner and sister after finding out about their affair. However, afterward, she starts to struggle with reclaiming her fame as Roxie has already stolen the spotlight from her.

Chicago also features Billy Flynn, a deceptive, and magnetic lawyer who is defending Both Roxie, and Velma, and is also highly driven by money, and much less concerned about the justice he is serving. Chicago also shifts around to the other side to unveil that the desire for power isn't only for the elite, rather it's in every one of us, circling back to Matron "Mama" Morton, a tough, sensible, and "a stone cold jail queen", who's not seen reaching the climax but yet is not above taking favors for her benefit.

history & awards

It's safe to say Chicago is the musical equivalent of "The Godfather", showcasing the performance mankind plays to reach life's climax. The show has won over 20 major awards including: 6 Tony Awards in 1976 for Best Musical, Book of a Musical, Original Score, Choreography, Featured Actress in a Musical (Gwen Verdon), and Director of a Musical (Bob Fosse), 6 additional Tony Awards in 1997, Drama Desk Awards, Olivier Awards, and a Grammy Award for its cast recordings. And the 2003 Academy Award for Best Picture for the film adaptation.

Chicago remains one of the iconic theatrical productions of our time, although it has raised so many debates on moral ambiguity, celebrity culture, justice and legal norms, and feminism and empowerment.

Ready to witness the art of the criminal? buy your tickets now before Chicago makes its storming appearance in New York, at the awe-inspiring Ambassador Theatre, on Friday 1st August 2025 for as little as $129 per seat!