As reported by Playbill On-Line on April 8, Brad Garrett, the Emmy-nominated star of TV's "Everybody Loves Raymond," will make his Broadway debut in Kander and Ebb's Chicago this summer. A spokesperson for the musical confirmed Garrett's casting April 15. Garrett will portray Amos Hart in the Tony-winning revival of Chicago from June 25 through July 28. P.J. Benjamin currently portrays Roxie's beleaguered husband, the role created for this revival by Tony winner Joel Grey. As Amos, Garrett will get the chance to perform one of the evening's highlights, the touchingly comical musical soliloquy, "Mr. Cellophane."
Garrett, who stands 6 feet 8-1/2 inches tall, was the first $100,000 grand champion winner in the comedy category of the original "Star Search" series. That win led to his first appearance on "The Tonight Show" as well as opening spots for such concert legends as Liza Minnelli and Diana Ross. A host of TV and film roles followed — including "Suicide Kings" and "Sweet and Lowdown" — but it is his role as Robert Charles Barone on the award-winning "Everybody Loves Raymond" that has brought the actor/comedian the most acclaim.
Bob Fosse, John Kander and Fred Ebb's Chicago, presented by Barry and Fran Weissler, plays the Shubert Theatre, 225 W. 44th Street. It won the Tony Award for Best Revival (Musical) in 1997. Walter Bobbie directs and Ann Reinking choreographs "in the style of Bob Fosse." For ticket information, call (212) 239-6200.
