Barrett, who was originally scheduled to depart the Kander and Ebb hit Sept. 28, has extended his run in the musical through Dec. 14. That day will also see the departure of two of Barrett's co-stars, Camille Saviola (Matron "Mama" Morton) and P. J. Benjamin (Amos Hart).

As previously announced, Reva Rice — best known to Broadway audiences for creating the role of Pearl in the Broadway production of Starlight Express — will succeed Deidre Goodwin as Velma Kelly Oct. 7. And, Oct. 7 will also see the return of Charlotte d'Amboise, a frequent Roxie Hart, who now succeeds film star Melanie Griffith in the role. D'Amboise is scheduled to stay with the long-running musical through Dec. 7.

Barrett currently portrays suave lawyer Billy Flynn in Chicago. The singer-actor received an Olivier Award nomination for his role in the London company of Kiss Me, Kate, and his other theatrical credits include the Broadway productions of Annie Get Your Gun and Candide. Barrett received a Los Angeles Drama Critics Award for his work in the L.A. production of Chicago and has been seen Off Broadway in Closer Than Ever, March of the Falsettos, The Death of Von Richtofen, The Time of the Cuckoo and Portrait of Jenny. His television and film appearances include "Hercules," "Longtime Companion," "All My Children," "Another World" and "Guiding Light."

Chicago won the Tony for Best Revival of a Musical in 1997 as well as awards for actors Bebe Neuwirth and James Naughton, director Walter Bobbie, lighting designer Ken Billington and choreographer Ann Reinking. The original production was directed and choreographed by the late Bob Fosse.

Chicago now plays Tuesday through Saturdays at 8 PM, Wednesday and Saturday matinees at 2 PM and Sundays at 6:30 PM. The Ambassador Theatre is located at 215 West 49th Street. For ticket information, call (212) 239-6200 or visit www.telecharge.com.