Chicago – The Musical at Uihlein Hall

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

characters

Including leading roles such as Roxie Hart, Velma Kelly, Billy Flynn, Matron "Mama" Morton, and more, the musical 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 drawn from 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 support her vaudeville profession, and disregarding their relation. 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 introduce you to countless like-minded individuals, with comparable intentions. Including Velma, an veteran, confident, 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 regaining her fame as Roxie has already stolen the spotlight from her.

The musical also features Billy Flynn, a manipulative, and charismatic lawyer who is defending Both Roxie, and Velma, who is also extremely driven by fortune, and seemingly indifferent to the justice he is serving. Chicago also shifts attention to the other side to showcase that the desire for power isn't only for the privileged, instead it's in every one of us, circling back to, Matron "Mama" Morton, a tough, sensible, and "a stone cold jail queen", who's not seen reaching the climax but yet isn't above taking favors for her benefit.

history & awards

It's safe to say Chicago is the theatrical counterpart of "The Godfather", showcasing the dance mankind plays to reach life's climax. The show has won over 20 major awards 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, Additionally, the 2003 Academy Award for Best Picture for the film adaptation.

Chicago remains one of the defining theatrical works in history, although it has provoked numerous criticisms on moral ambiguity, celebrity culture, justice and legal norms, and feminism and empowerment.

Ready to witness the art of the criminal, buy your tickets now before Chicago makes its storming appearance in Milwaukee, at the stunning Uihlein Hall at Marcus Center For The Performing Arts, on Sunday 19th January 2025 for as little as $71 per seat!