Alyssa Milano is set to take her turn on Broadway in the musical “Chicago,” bringing her star power to a production that satirizes celebrity culture. Beginning on Sept. 16, she will portray Roxie Hart at the Ambassador Theatre for an eight-week run until Nov. 10. Milano, known for her roles in “Who’s the Boss?” and “Charmed,” looks forward to the unpredictability of live theater, a medium she has always cherished for its ability to offer fresh experiences each night.
Returning to the stage is a nostalgic journey for Milano, who started her acting career in theater at the age of 8 in a national touring production of “Annie.” With her children now settled in school and her husband’s career stable, the timing felt right for Milano to tackle Broadway. Encouraged by her 9-year-old daughter to seize the opportunity, Milano views this new chapter as a perfect alignment of circumstances.
Milano’s diverse career has included film projects such as “Brazen” and “Wet Hot American Summer: Ten Years Later,” as well as the Netflix series “Insatiable.” Additionally, she has been an active advocate for the #MeToo movement, launched fashion and accessory lines, and hosted Lifetime’s “Project Runway All-Stars.” On Broadway, Milano aims to pay tribute to Ann Reinking, the original Roxie in the 1996 revival of “Chicago,” by honoring her choreography and portrayal of the character.
“Chicago” takes place in the roaring 1920s and critiques the phenomenon of turning criminals into celebrities through the lens of show business and the media. The production boasts Bob Fosse-inspired dance numbers, revealing costumes, and hit songs like “All That Jazz” and “Cell Block Tango.” Milano joins a long line of actresses who have taken on the role of Roxie, following in the footsteps of stars like Pam Anderson, Melanie Griffith, and Brooke Shields.
Anticipating her Broadway debut with enthusiasm, Milano hopes to offer audiences fresh nuances in her portrayal of Roxie, contributing to the rich legacy established by the talented women who have embodied the character before her.