Chicago the Musical Returns to Providence with Fresh Cast

Categories: Events/What's HappeningNewsTheater

A captivating moment from the Chicago Musical performance at the Providence Performing Arts Center.

News Summary

The acclaimed touring production of Chicago is set to return to the Providence Performing Arts Center from May 2-4. This new run features a fresh cast while preserving the classic charm of the Broadway revival. The musical delves into the lives of two women on death row in the Roaring Twenties, embroiled in a quest for fame and acquittal. With memorable songs and a vibrant ensemble, this production promises a nostalgic yet fresh experience for audiences. Tickets start at $47 and are available at PPACRI.ORG.

Chicago the Musical Returns to Providence with a Fresh Cast and Classic Appeal

Providence is hosting the acclaimed touring production of Chicago at the Providence Performing Arts Center from May 2-4. This exciting run features a new cast while maintaining the classic charm of the original Broadway revival, which has set a record for the longest-running show on Broadway with over 10,500 performances.

The plot of Chicago transports audiences to the Roaring Twenties, following the intertwined lives of two women, Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, both on death row for murdering their husbands. The musical showcases their relentless pursuit of acquittal with the aid of a fame-hungry lawyer, Billy Flynn. Through their journey, they seek to transform their scandalous tales into sensational Vaudeville careers, with the story peppered by memorable songs like “All That Jazz” and “Cell Block Tango”.

Current Cast Members

The current production stars Ellie Roddy as Roxie Hart, who injects a distinct shrewdness into the role. Her performance is especially noteworthy during the scene of her character’s pregnancy announcement, showcasing a calculated nuance that enhances the character’s complexity.

Opposite her, Taylor Lane portrays Velma Kelly with a sultry yet vibrant vocal performance. Lane contributes depth to the character dynamic, creating a vibrant frenemy relationship between Velma and Roxie. Connor Sullivan takes on the role of the overly confident lawyer Billy Flynn, delivering a performance that effectively emphasizes Flynn’s most unlikable traits.

The ensemble cast also includes Illeana “Illy” Kirven as Mama and Andrew Letzger as Amos, both of whom have received positive feedback for their portrayals of supportive yet significant characters in the story.

Nostalgic yet Fresh Experience

The production aims to evoke nostalgia for long-time fans of the musical while offering fresh surprises throughout each performance. It is a complete replica of the revival that has captivated audiences since its opening in 1996, ensuring that both newcomers and seasoned theatre-goers experience the same electrifying atmosphere that has made Chicago a timeless classic.

Ticket Information and Related Events

Tickets for the Providence showing of Chicago start at $47 and can be purchased at PPACRI.ORG. This engaging production is part of a broader cultural lineup in Providence, which also includes the Trinity Repertory Company’s Blues for an Alabama Sky and the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra’s performance of Brahms’ Requiem on May 10. This vibrant theater scene highlights the city’s commitment to providing diverse and enriching cultural experiences.