Original Revival Stars to Return for Chicago's 10th Anniversary
By Andrew Gans
26 Jul 2006
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Bebe Neuwirth and Ann Reinking
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| photo by Max Vadukw | Ann Reinking, Bebe Neuwirth, James Naughton, Joel Grey and Marcia Lewis, who originated roles in the long-running revival of Chicago, will return to celebrate that show's decade on Broadway.
It has been confirmed that a special performance of the Kander and Ebb hit will be held Nov. 14 at 6:30 PM at the Ambassador Theatre to celebrate the show's tenth anniversary. In addition to the aforementioned performers, the evening will also feature several Chicago alumni who have been part of the cast since it opened on Broadway in November 1996.
Tony-winning director Walter Bobbie will helm the one-night-only event as the original stars and other Chicago performers present the musical in its entirety.
In a statement Chicago producer Barry Weissler said, "It’s an amazing testament to the genius of the creators, Bob Fosse and John Kander & Fred Ebb that our production of Chicago has played over 4,500 performances and will celebrate its 10th year. Every talented actor who has graced our stage for the past 10 years as well as all of our backstage crew and musicians contributed to the enormous success of Chicago. Not only has it been a glorious ride on Broadway, but its many international and national productions have proven that Chicago is a timeless show which audiences have responded to for its brilliant concept, book, music and dancing.”
The performance and post-show gala will benefit Safe Horizon, "a victim assistance agency that provides support, prevents violence, and promotes justice for victims of crime and abuse, their families and their communities." Visit www.safehorizon.org for more information.
The current revival of Chicago began life as one of the three annual Encores! presentations offered by City Center. Produced by Barry and Fran Weissler, the musical opened on Broadway at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in Nov. 1996 where it remained through Feb. 1997. The musical transferred to the Shubert Theatre on Feb. 11, 1997, and played that house through Jan. 26, 2003. The revival reopened at the Ambassador Theatre, its current home, on Jan. 29, 2003.
Chicago currently features Brenda Braxton as Velma Kelly, Rita Wilson as Roxie Hart, Obba Babatunde as Billy Flynn, Kevin Chamberlin as Amos Hart, Lillias White as Matron "Mama" Morton and R. Lowe as Mary Sunshine. Michelle DeJean will step into the role of Roxie Hart Aug. 8-20. Bianca Marroquin, who starred in the Mexico City production of Chicago, will begin performances as Roxie Aug. 22, the same day Grammy Award winner Usher begins his stint as Billy Flynn.
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.
Chicago plays the Ambassador Theatre, located at 215 West 49th Street.
Tickets for the 10th anniversary gala range from $500-$5,000; sponsorships begin at $10,000. For reservations call (212) 577-7749.
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