Producers Fran and Barry Weissler have cast German recording artist Ute Lemper to play Roxie Hart in their West End production of John Kander and Fred Ebb's Chicago, according to a production source. British star Ruthie Henshall has been signed to co-star as Velma.
New York rumors that Dream star Lesley Ann Warren would get the part proved to be unfounded.
Lemper is known internationally, but especially popular on the continent, for her recordings of songs from such Broadway shows as Chicago and Cabaret. Henshall has a huge West End following since starring in the London companies of She Loves Me and Crazy For You.
In the next few days, casting choices for the all important roles of jailhouse lawyer Billy Flynn and prison matron Mama Morton will be annnounced. England's Robert Lindsay, well-remembered for his star turn in Me and My Girl, reportedly is being actively pursued for Flynn.
Speculation has it that Joel Grey will recreate his role of Amos Hart, Roxie's all but invisible husband, in the London production. Grey could not immediately be reached for comment.
