Mark Ballas, the accomplished three-time champion of “Dancing with the Stars,” is set to return to Broadway this summer, reprising his acclaimed portrayal of the suave lawyer Billy Flynn in the hit musical “Chicago.” His limited engagement is scheduled to run for four weeks, commencing on 20 July and concluding on 16 August at the Ambassador Theatre in New York City.
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This marks a significant return for Ballas, who previously broke box office records during his first run in the role earlier this season. His performances contributed to “Chicago” achieving its highest-grossing sales in 30 years, a remarkable feat in the realm of theatre. The Broadway veteran is eagerly anticipated to bring his flair back to this iconic character after initially debuting alongside his former dance partner, Whitney Leavitt.
Prior to Ballas taking the stage, comedian Matteo Lane is expected to step into the role of Billy Flynn from 22 June. The transition highlights the casting dynamism and the excitement surrounding this celebrated production. Following Ballas’ stint, South Korean pop sensation Ivy will take on the role of Roxie Hart starting 17 August, marking another high-profile addition to the cast.
Ballas, now 40, has enjoyed a successful career that began with his breakthrough as a professional dancer on “Dancing with the Stars.” His impressive track record includes 11 finals appearances and three championships, alongside recognition in the industry, including a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Choreography and two World Choreography Awards.
In addition to his impressive achievements on the dance floor, Ballas has built a noteworthy presence on Broadway. His debut came in 2016, where he took on the role of Frankie Valli in “Jersey Boys,” further expanding his theatrical repertoire throughout subsequent national tours and performances. In 2018, he starred as Charlie Price in “Kinky Boots,” reinforcing his status as a multifaceted performer.
Beyond the theatre, Ballas has broadened his career by joining the cast of the upcoming fourth season of Peacock’s “The Traitors,” showcasing his versatility across various entertainment platforms. Furthermore, he is also part of the indie-pop duo Alexander Jean alongside his wife BC Jean. Since forming the group in 2015, they have garnered over 200 million streams globally, with popular tracks like “Roses and Violets” and “Highs and Lows.”
As the longest-running American musical in Broadway history, “Chicago” is set to celebrate its 30th anniversary this autumn. The show, featuring music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb, chronicles the story of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, two women who leverage their infamy to pursue fame in the Vaudeville circuit. The score includes classics such as “All That Jazz,” “Roxie,” and “Razzle Dazzle,” contributing to its enduring popularity.
Originally premiering in 1975, “Chicago” featured renowned performers Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera in its leading roles. The revival that commenced in 1996, under the direction of Walter Bobbie, not only showcased Ann Reinking and Bebe Neuwirth but also won six Tony Awards in 1997, further cementing its place in Broadway history.
The current cast includes talents such as Rachel Schur as Roxie Hart, Sophie Carmen-Jones as Velma Kelly, and Nik Walker as Billy Flynn, amongst others. Together, they contribute to a vibrant and captivating production that continues to enthral audiences.
Tickets for “Chicago” are presently available for purchase, and with Ballas returning to the stage, anticipation is expected to soar as Broadway fans prepare for another exhilarating season of this celebrated musical.