Chicago – The Musical at Uihlein Hall

Inspired by the 1926 play written by Maurine Dallas Watkins, Chicago is one of the most groundbreaking performances of all times. The production unpacks the depth and lengths to which people will go to sustain power.

characters

Featuring leading roles like Roxie Hart, Velma Kelly, Billy Flynn, Matron "Mama" Morton, and others, the show centers around murder, greed, violence, adultery, exploration, and corruption. Chicago was inspired by a play of the exact name of Maurine Dallas Watkins, which was based on real-life incidents.

storyline

The story begins with Roxie, a young and ambitious vaudeville dancer, who murders her lover "Fred Casely" after he refuses to advance her vaudeville profession, and dismissing their relationship. The story unfolds, and Roxie becomes aware of the fame she has garnered as a female criminal. Like Roxie's desire to escape her mundane life, within time Chicago will showcase numerous like-minded people, with the same or similar intentions. Including Velma, an seasoned, self-assured, sharp-minded, and competitive vaudeville star who killed her partner and sister after finding them in the same bed. However afterward, she begins to struggle with reclaiming her fame because Roxie has overshadowed her.

Chicago also features Billy Flynn, a manipulative, and magnetic lawyer who is defending Both Roxie, and Velma, who is also highly motivated by wealth, and much less concerned about the justice he is serving. Chicago also shifts around to the other side to showcase that the desire for power isn't only for the privileged, rather it's a part of everyone's uncontrolled shadow, circling back to, Matron "Mama" Morton, a tough, sensible, and "a stone cold jail queen", who's not seen reaching the climax but yet is not averse to exploiting situations for personal advantage.

history & awards

It's safe to say Chicago is the theatrical equivalent of "The Godfather", showcasing the game mankind plays to reach life's climax. The production has won over 20 major recognitions including: 6 Tony Awards in 1976 for Best Musical, Book of a Musical, Original Score, Choreography, Featured Actress in a Musical (Gwen Verdon), and Director of a Musical (Bob Fosse), 6 additional Tony Awards in 1997, Drama Desk Awards, Olivier Awards, and a Grammy Award for its cast recordings. And the 2003 Academy Award for Best Picture for the film adaptation.

Chicago remains one of the defining musical productions of our time, although it has raised so many criticisms on moral ambiguity, celebrity culture, justice and legal norms, and feminism and empowerment.

Prepared to witness the artistry of the criminal, purchase your tickets now before Chicago makes its spectacular appearance in Milwaukee, at the impressive Uihlein Hall at Marcus Center For The Performing Arts, on Thursday 16th January 2025 for as little as $67 per seat!