Yes, Chicago is Still Broadway’s Powerhouse Musical

You’ve seen the movie. You may have even seen the stage musical. It doesn’t matter. Chicago is a Broadway legend that remains one of the most exciting shows year after year. The Knick team went to see the veteran show recently and walked away with jazz hands. Here’s why Chicago is still holding its own on Broadway.

Chicago on Broadway

Flawless Production

First off, Chicago has its production down pat, and runs like a well-oiled machine. No surprise, seeing as its had nearly 9,000 shows of practice. It’s the longest-running revival on Broadway, reopening in 1996 after a two-decade hiatus. It’s also one of the most celebrated shows: the revival won six Tonys and a Grammy. Take your seat knowing you’re in for a flawless show.

Rotating Stars

Twenty years on Broadway is a long run (only Phantom has been around longer), and Chicago does a great job to keep audiences back, with a regularly rotating lineup of main actors. Celebrities such as Michelle Williams, Usher, Brandy, Brooke Shields, Melanie Griffith, Christie Brinkley and Patrick Swayze have all taken the stage for roles in the production. In 2018, breakout Israeli star Shiri Maimon is set to appear as protagonist Roxie Hart.

Jazzy Tunes You Know

Chicago has staying power partly because its songs—music by Jason Kander, witty lyrics by Fred Ebb—are so catchy. Crowd-pleasers include “We Both Reached for the Gun,” the iconic “Cell Block Tango,” “When You’re Good to Mama,” and the legendary “All That Jazz.”

Broadway’s Most Impressive Dancers

In many musicals, the cast seems to be a group of singers who happen to dance well. Not so for Chicago. The dancing here takes centerstage. It’s sensual, steamy, rhythmic and, of course, jazzy. Check out this rehearsal footage for a sampling.

Feeling like keeping the party going after seeing Chicago? Stop by The Knick after for a celebratory round of after-theater drinks at St. Cloud Social, our rooftop atop Times Square.