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NEW YORK — The iconic character of Roxie Hart remains unique, yet numerous performers have stepped into her shoes. As the core figure of Broadway’s enduring musical “Chicago,” Roxie, a murderous, down-and-out chorus girl, transcends a singular ownership among actors. Instead, she is embraced by a diverse array of women who, despite seemingly vast differences, have all graced the stage in her signature bowler hat and sultry moves.
Since its revival in 1996, the roster of actresses portraying Roxie has included an eclectic mix of personalities, from Broadway veterans to celebrities with little stage experience. This includes well-known names such as Brooke Shields, Sandy Duncan, and Ashlee Simpson, along with notable figures like Christie Brinkley and Jennifer Nettles. There’s a surprising acceptance of various Roxies, each contributing their flair to the role.
According to Barry Weissler, one of the show’s lead producers, “Chicago” is characterized by its welcoming nature, never closing its doors to newcomers. The character of Roxie may be sinister—she kills her lover and manipulates her husband—but her story encapsulates a lust for fame that resonates strongly with the realities of celebrity. Her journey culminates in a partnership with rival Velma, where they capitalize on their notoriety through a showcase, with the notable refrain, “The name on everybody’s lips / Is gonna be Roxie.”
This long-running revival owes some of its longevity to the star-studded casting, which often intertwines with the themes of fame and celebrity depicted in the narrative. Choreographer Greg Butler reflects that while the show revolves around the phenomena of celebrity, it also glorifies the very nature of casting celebrities.
While the allure of the role is undeniable, performing Roxie is still a challenge. Each actress must master the demanding choreography, memorize intricate lines, and navigate high-heeled footwear. However, the character allows for flexibility, as Butler explains the manageable physicality of the part compared to her counterpart, Velma.
To ensure a smooth transition for newcomers, Weissler emphasizes the importance of supporting stars with skilled Broadway professionals around them. Roxie often commands the stage surrounded by an ensemble of talented male dancers, allowing her to shine even with minimal movement.
Different actresses come with varying levels of experience; some require additional training, while others flaunt their talent effortlessly, like Pamela Anderson, who brought her own flair to the role during a recent run. The creative team often adapts the character to include signature traits of each star, as in Anderson’s case, where costume modifications paid homage to her “Baywatch” days.
For many, the allure of playing Roxie is irresistibly captured in the pitch from casting director Duncan Stewart. He encourages agents to emphasize what “Chicago” can offer the stars, highlighting its glamour and relative accessibility—a perfect opportunity for established celebrities looking to notch a notable Broadway credit without the heavy demands of other productions.
Stewart diligently scouts potential Roxies through a meticulous process where he evaluates names based on magazine profiles and personal backgrounds. With a compiled dossier in hand, interested stars can be approached for the role, subject to successful training. This preparation phase, likened to a boot camp, builds confidence and equips the actress with the skills necessary for the performance.
The boot camp’s training is supportive, aiming to adapt Roxie’s persona to a relatable celebrity experience. Evans emphasizes that it’s about connecting with personal moments of fame, helping actresses draw on their real-life encounters with the public eye. Each performer is encouraged to capitalize on their unique strengths, creating a personalized portrayal of Roxie Hart.
For example, Melanie Griffith, who faced challenges while rehearsing complex dance sequences, found her own interpretation during the training process, resulting in a movement that became known as “The Melanie.” Similarly, acclaimed actress Melora Hardin, with a background in dance and singing, sharpened her skills further before dazzling audiences during her Broadway debut in late 2008.
“Chicago” has garnered over 11,000 performances on Broadway and remains a robust fixture of the theater landscape, showcasing themes of celebrity culture, greed, and societal manipulation. The musical has reached an incredible audience, exceeding 32 million attendees across various global productions.
With every new Roxie, the show adapts and keeps itself relevant, continually reflecting the complexities of fame and its consequences. Both Weissler and Bobbie affirm that this enduring representation of Roxie Hart is no gimmick; instead, it signifies an authentic exploration of show business and its many layers. As Bobbie articulates, in “Chicago,” the story ultimately revolves around women and their complex relationship with fame and ambition, distinguishing it from other Broadway narratives.
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