**Broadway’s Iconic ‘Chicago’ Shines at 2026 Tony Awards**
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On June 7, 2026, the Tony Awards showcased a dazzling tribute to Broadway’s longest-running American musical, ‘Chicago’, marking its impressive 30th anniversary. The ceremony took place at the illustrious Radio City Music Hall, where a host of celebrity performers gathered to celebrate the production’s enduring legacy.
The evening commenced with Queen Latifah taking to the stage, a familiar face to fans of the musical. Latifah, renowned for her Oscar-nominated portrayal of Matron “Mama” Morton in the 2002 film adaptation of ‘Chicago’, introduced the special performance, reflecting on the musical’s remarkable journey. “At 30 years and counting, Chicago has proven to have more than just staying power,” she remarked. “And I count myself lucky to share in that legacy.”
The tribute featured an impressive line-up that included Alex Newell, who recently played a lead role in the current Broadway production. Newell kicked off the medley with an energetic performance of “When You’re Good to Mama”, setting the tone for the evening. The atmosphere was abuzz with excitement as the audience witnessed the unfolding tribute to one of the most beloved shows in theatre history.
Following Newell’s powerful performance, the spotlight shifted to the audience where another beloved number, “Cell Block Tango,” was brought to life by a talented ensemble comprised of Dylan Mulvaney, Whitney Leavitt, Adrienne Warren, Julianne Hough, and Jesse Tyler Ferguson, who donned the personas of the six infamous murderesses from the musical. This lively interlude enchanted the audience, reminding everyone of the musical’s sharp wit and cultural relevance.
The grand finale of the performance was a show-stopping rendition of “All That Jazz” by the evening’s host, Pink. The Grammy Award-winning artist put her own spin on Velma Kelly’s iconic number, flawlessly executing Bob Fosse’s intricate choreography while delivering a captivating vocal performance. Pink’s energetic presence encapsulated the essence of ‘Chicago’, leaving audiences thrilled and nostalgic.
Created by the legendary trio of John Kander, Fred Ebb, and Bob Fosse, ‘Chicago’ debuted in the early 1970s, drawing inspiration from the 1926 play by Maurine Dallas Watkins. The storyline follows two ambitious murderesses, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, who leverage their criminal fame to carve out a niche in the vaudeville scene. The original production, directed by Fosse, ran from 1975 to 1977, with renowned performers Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera originating the lead roles.
The revival that began in 1996, directed by Walter Bobbie and featuring stars Ann Reinking and Bebe Neuwirth, has garnered immense acclaim, winning six Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Over the years, the show has welcomed numerous celebrities into its ranks, with star turns from artists like Pamela Anderson, Ariana Madix, and Billy Ray Cyrus contributing to its allure.
Earlier in 2026, Whitney Leavitt made headlines by breaking box office records in her portrayal of Roxie Hart, highlighting the musical’s ongoing popularity and ability to draw in both audiences and talent. This enduring success is evident, as just last week it was announced that comedian Matteo Lane will be joining the cast as the charming lawyer Billy Flynn, marking his Broadway debut.
The vitality of ‘Chicago’ as a theatrical staple remains strong, with both its rich history and contemporary revivals ensuring that it continues to resonate with new generations. As the evening’s performances illustrated, the impact of ‘Chicago’ transcends its 30 years on stage, making it a true star of Broadway.
The 2026 Tony Awards aired live on CBS and were available for streaming on Paramount+, allowing theatre enthusiasts everywhere to partake in the celebration of Broadway’s finest talent and productions. With ‘Chicago’ continuing to captivate audiences, the future looks bright for this enduring musical masterpiece.