Alex Newell and Kate Baldwin Set to Grace Broadway’s ‘Chicago’ **Exclusive**
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In an exciting development for Broadway fans, Alex Newell and Kate Baldwin have been confirmed to join the cast of the iconic musical ‘Chicago’. Newell, a Tony Award winner known for their outstanding performance in ‘Shucked’, will be taking on the role of Matron “Mama” Morton from Monday, November 17. Meanwhile, Baldwin, a two-time Tony nominee celebrated for her roles in ‘Hello, Dolly!’ and ‘Finian’s Rainbow’, will dazzle audiences as Roxie Hart starting on Monday, November 10.
The announcement of Newell and Baldwin’s casting in ‘Chicago’ comes as a thrilling surprise for theatre enthusiasts. The Tony-winning ‘Chicago’, now in its 29th year on Broadway, continues to captivate audiences at the Ambassador Theatre in New York City. The musical’s narrative delves into the intriguing lives of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, two murderous women who leverage their crimes to gain stardom on the Vaudeville circuit.
John Kander’s captivating score, coupled with Fred Ebb’s poignant lyrics, immerses audiences in a world of classic musical gems including “All That Jazz,” “The Cell-Block Tango,” “When You’re Good to Momma,” “Roxie,” and “Razzle Dazzle.” The book of the musical, penned by Ebb and Bob Fosse, adds depth and richness to the timeless story of ‘Chicago’.
Notably, ‘Chicago’ originally premiered in 1975 with legendary actresses Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera leading the pack as Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, respectively. The 1996 revival, directed by Walter Bobbie, wowed audiences with powerhouse performances from Ann Reinking and Bebe Neuwirth, ultimately winning six Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical.
The silver screen adaptation of ‘Chicago’ in 2002 featured an ensemble cast led by Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renée Zellweger, receiving critical acclaim and securing six Oscars, including Best Picture. The Broadway revival continues to enthral audiences with its dynamic storytelling and stellar performances, solidifying its status as an all-time classic.
On a personal note, Alex Newell’s impressive credits include notable appearances in ‘Once On This Island’, a role that earned them a Grammy nomination and a Drama Desk Award. Their versatility as a gender nonconforming and nonbinary actor shines through in every performance, captivating audiences with their talent and charisma.
Kate Baldwin, a seasoned stage performer with two Tony nominations under her belt, brings a wealth of experience to her portrayal of Roxie Hart. With a diverse range of roles on Broadway and television, Baldwin’s artistry and skill promise to add depth and dimension to the character of Roxie, making her a standout in the production.
The Broadway production of ‘Chicago’ promises to be a must-watch event, with tickets now on sale for theatre enthusiasts eager to witness Newell and Baldwin shine onstage. As these two gifted performers prepare to bring their magic to the iconic roles of Matron “Mama” Morton and Roxie Hart, Broadway audiences can look forward to an unforgettable theatrical experience.
In conclusion, the addition of Alex Newell and Kate Baldwin to the cast of ‘Chicago’ has generated a buzz of excitement and anticipation among theatre aficionados. Their upcoming performances are sure to captivate audiences and breathe new life into this timeless Broadway classic, promising a spellbinding theatrical experience for all who attend.