The Tony-winning actress will play Matron "Mama" Morton when the tour of the acclaimed Kander and Ebb musical arrives at Philadelphia's Merriam Theatre. Moore, according to a production spokesperon, is scheduled to play the prison matron Dec. 26-31.

Melba Moore was last on Broadway in Les Misérables portraying the ill-fated Fantine. A singer with a multi-octave range, Moore began her career as a back-up singer for the likes of Aretha Franklin, Dionne Warwick and Liza Minnelli. Her work in the original company of Hair led to her Tony-winning role in Purlie, and since then Moore has performed in concert arenas throughout the world. Her R&B hits include "I Am His Lady," "Falling" and "Read My Lips," which was nominated for a Grammy Award. Moore was also seen in the Paramount film "The Fighting Temptations."

Moore will also offer On Broadway with Melba Moore Feb. 11, 2007, at the Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts. The 2 PM show, according to press notes, will highlight Moore's "legacy in Broadway, television and radio." For tickets visit www.brooklyncenteronline.org.

Chicago won the Tony Award 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.

The Merriam Theatre is located in Philadelphia, PA, at 250 South Broad Street. For tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com.