Mark Ballas has once again graced the stage of Broadway, reprising his acclaimed role as Billy Flynn in the popular musical *Chicago*. The revamp of the classic show marks a significant return for the *Dancing with the Stars* champion, who celebrated a record-breaking run earlier this year at the Ambassador Theatre in New York City. From July 20th to August 16th, Ballas will be illuminating the stage once more with his suave and charismatic portrayal of the smooth-talking lawyer.
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In an exclusive interview, Ballas shared his enthusiasm about delving back into a role that has quickly become a personal favourite. His initial run saw him achieve unprecedented box office success, setting new high-water marks for the production, and he is eager to explore more layers of this complex character. “What I love about Billy is that not everything is as it appears to be,” he explained. “Billy is slick, suave, and a master manipulator; yet, he is also self-made, coming from humble beginnings.”
Ballas has not only established himself in the Broadway community with his dynamic performances but is also keen on future collaborations with his wife, singer-songwriter BC Jean. He expressed a desire to perform alongside her in *Chicago*, envisioning her as a rock-inspired Roxie Hart. He believes BC Jean’s vocal style—evocative of legends like Janis Joplin and Stevie Nicks—would bring a fresh perspective to the iconic role. “We have this dream title for the production: ‘Rock and Roll Roxie’,” he laughed, outlining their aspirations.
Yet, the return to Broadway also provided Ballas a reflective moment, particularly regarding his connection to his late grandmother. Earlier this year, she made a long-awaited trip to New York to see him perform in *Chicago*, which he described as a deeply moving experience. “Nan hasn’t been able to travel for a while, and her seeing me on stage was just so special,” he recounted. Her presence at five consecutive performances was a culmination of years spent nurturing his passion for theatre.
Ballas’ own beginnings in the performing arts can be traced back to his formative years in England, where he would spend weekends attending theatre school, his grandmother always by his side. “To think back to those Saturdays in jazz shoes, learning songs like ‘All That Jazz’, and now being on stage in one of theatre’s biggest productions, it’s just a proud moment,” he remarked.
Despite the challenges that come with a demanding theatre schedule, including a brief bout of illness earlier this year, Ballas approached the experience with resilience and good humour. A flu outbreak had affected several cast members during his debut performances. “When a flu hits the theatre, it certainly takes a toll,” he noted with a chuckle, “but we managed to get through it.”
As he prepares to step back into his role, he is also embracing the monumental changes that have unfolded in his personal life. Celebrating their tenth wedding anniversary this November, Ballas and BC Jean welcomed their first child in late 2023: a son named Banksi Wylde. Becoming a father has triggered an emotional transformation within him. “I just cry now,” he admitted, beaming at the changes parenthood has brought. “Watching my wife as a mother has deepened my admiration for her; it’s beautiful and fulfilling to see them together.”
In the world of theatre where he has built a substantial career, the joy he feels from family life surpasses it all. For Ballas, the partnerships formed on stage cannot rival the union and life he shares with BC Jean. “She’s my best friend and my ride or die,” he asserted. “We just get each other, and my love for her grows every day.”
Mark Ballas’s return to *Chicago* might represent just another chapter in his career, but it is laden with sentimental significance, intertwining the realms of theatre and his experiences with family. As he continues to captivate audiences, the legacy of his craft and the support of loved ones will undeniably play a role in his ongoing journey. Tickets for *Chicago* are currently available, with performances extending through to mid-August.