Razzle Dazzle: 7 Reasons Why The Chicago Musical Is Still Broadway's Hottest Ticket After 28 Years

Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, and prepare to be razzle-dazzled! As of today, December 18, 2025, the iconic revival of the *Chicago* musical is not just running—it’s celebrating a monumental, record-breaking legacy. The show recently marked its incredible 28th Anniversary on Broadway, cementing its status as the longest-running American musical in history and the second-longest-running show overall. This enduring tale of murder, media, and celebrity in the Jazz Age continues to captivate audiences with its timeless score and signature Bob Fosse choreography.

The musical’s success is a testament to its sharp social commentary, which remains chillingly relevant in the age of viral fame and media sensationalism. From the smoky allure of "All That Jazz" to the cynical brilliance of "Razzle Dazzle," *Chicago* offers a dark, sexy, and unforgettable night of "murder, greed, corruption, violence, exploitation, adultery, and treachery."

The Scandalous History and Creative Masterminds Behind Chicago

The enduring success of *Chicago* is rooted in a sensational true story from the 1920s and the genius of its legendary creative team. The musical is an adaptation of a 1926 play by reporter Maurine Dallas Watkins, who covered the real-life murder trials of two women, Beulah Annan and Belva Gaertner, in the city of Chicago. Watkins's cynical newspaper columns, which detailed how the women manipulated the press to gain public sympathy and acquittal, provided the perfect blueprint for the musical's story of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly.

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Key Figures and Milestones:

• Source Material: Chicago (1926 play) by Maurine Dallas Watkins, based on the trials of Beulah Annan and Belva Gaertner.
• Original Broadway Production: Opened June 3, 1975, at the 46th Street Theatre. Directed and choreographed by Bob Fosse, it ran for 936 performances.
• The Revival (The Current Production): Opened November 14, 1996, at the Richard Rodgers Theatre (later moving to the Ambassador Theatre). This stripped-down, "concert-style" production was directed by Walter Bobbie and choreographed by Ann Reinking, "in the style of Bob Fosse."
• The Creators: Music by John Kander, Lyrics by Fred Ebb, and Book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse.
• Major Awards: Winner of six 1997 Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical, as well as an Olivier Award and a Grammy Award for the cast recording.
• Record: It is the longest-running American musical in Broadway history.

7 Reasons Why Chicago's Razzle Dazzle Never Fades

The 1996 revival, which recently celebrated its 28th Anniversary and 11,000 performances, has a longevity few shows can rival. Here are the key factors that keep the Ambassador Theatre packed night after night.

1. The Timeless Relevance of Media Scrutiny

The musical’s central theme—that celebrity can be manufactured, and justice can be bought—is more relevant today than it was in 1996, or even 1975. The characters of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly are masters of exploiting the press, turning their murder charges into a media frenzy. This biting satire on the public's obsession with scandal ensures the show never feels dated. The character of Billy Flynn, the smooth-talking lawyer, perfectly embodies the manipulation of public opinion with his famous song, "Razzle Dazzle."

2. Bob Fosse’s Iconic Choreography

The visual language of *Chicago* is defined by the unique, sensual, and instantly recognizable style of legendary choreographer Bob Fosse. Even in the revival, which was staged by Ann Reinking "in the style of Fosse," the iconic moves—the turned-in knees, hunched shoulders, and white-gloved hands—are the show's seductive heartbeat. The movement is as much a character as Roxie or Velma, making the show a masterclass in theatrical dance.

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3. The Kander and Ebb Score

John Kander and Fred Ebb created a score that is pure Jazz Age perfection. Every song is a standalone hit, from the opening number "All That Jazz" to the cynical "When You're Good to Mama" and the heartbreaking "Mr. Cellophane." The music is a perfect blend of vaudeville, jazz, and dark humor, driving the narrative with infectious energy.

4. The Minimalist, Concert-Style Staging

Unlike grand, spectacle-driven musicals, the 1996 revival embraces a minimalist aesthetic. The cast is dressed in simple, revealing black costumes, and the orchestra is placed directly on stage, serving as a visible part of the action. This stripped-down approach shifts the focus entirely onto the performers, the music, and the script's sharp wit, proving that "less is more" can lead to decades of success.

5. The Star-Driven Casting Strategy

A major factor in *Chicago's* longevity is its ability to attract a rotating cast of celebrity performers. This strategy keeps the show in the headlines and introduces it to new audiences. Recent and upcoming examples include:

• Current Roxie Hart: Kate Baldwin (as of late 2025).
• Upcoming Star: Television personality Whitney Leavitt is scheduled to take on the role of Roxie Hart for a limited engagement in early 2026.
• Tour Stars: The 2025 UK tour has featured well-known names like Faye Brooks and Brenda Edwards in the cast.

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6. The Unforgettable Character of Billy Flynn

Billy Flynn, the slick lawyer who never loses a case, is one of Broadway's most iconic roles. His numbers, like "We Both Reached for the Gun" (staged as a puppet show with Roxie as his dummy) and the title song "Billy Flynn," are theatrical highlights. The character is a masterclass in performance and a key reason for the show's enduring appeal.

7. The Global Phenomenon and 2025-2026 Tours

*Chicago* is not confined to Broadway’s Ambassador Theatre. Its global reach, including a successful 2002 Oscar-winning film adaptation, ensures constant visibility. Furthermore, the show continues to tour extensively, with a full schedule of 2025-2026 North American and international tour dates announced, bringing the "Hot Honey Rag" to cities across the world. The current touring cast features a new generation of talent, ensuring the Fosse legacy continues to travel.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know Before You See Chicago

Who are the main characters in the Chicago Musical?

The story primarily revolves around two female murderesses, Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, who compete for the attention of the press and the services of the manipulative lawyer, Billy Flynn. Other key characters include the corrupt prison matron, Mama Morton, and Roxie's hapless husband, Amos Hart, who sings the poignant number "Mr. Cellophane."

Why is Chicago the longest-running American musical?

The 1996 revival surpassed the previous record holder, *A Chorus Line*, in 2011 to become the longest-running American musical. Its success is attributed to its simple, inexpensive-to-run staging, its timeless satirical themes, and its successful strategy of regularly casting celebrities to boost ticket sales.

Where is the Chicago musical currently playing?

The Broadway production of *Chicago* is currently playing at the Ambassador Theatre in New York City. The show also has active national and international tours running throughout the 2025-2026 season.