ABT launches Broadway Series with “Chicago”

Broadway production of razzle-dazzle musical comes to Billings Nov. 10-11

On Stage
Alberta Bair: Chicago
Dylis Croman as Roxie Hart in the touring Broadway production of “Chicago.”Photo © Jeremy Daniel

The Alberta Bair Theater’s Broadway Series kicks off with the razzle-dazzle smash hit “Chicago,” 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11.

Set amidst the decadence of the Roaring ‘20s, “Chicago” is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who maliciously murders her on-the-side lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, she dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by hiring Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer to transform her vengeful crime into a barrage of sensational headlines, the likes of which might just as easily be ripped from today’s tabloids.

With a legendary book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb, “Chicago” is now the longest-running American musical in Broadway history – and shows no sign of slowing down!

Produced by Barry and Fran Weissler, “Chicago” is the winner of six 1997 Tony Awards, including Best Musical Revival and a Grammy Award for Best Musical Cast Recording.

The national tour is directed by David Hyslop and choreographed by David Bushman. Walter Bobbie is the director of the original New York production and Ann Reinking was the original choreographer in the style of Bob Fosse. “Chicago” features set design by John Lee Beatty, costume design by William Ivey Long, lighting design by Ken Billington and sound design by Scott Lehrer.

Whether it’s your first time to a Broadway musical or your hundredth, “Chicago” is not to be missed. Reviewers agree. Time Magazine calls it “a triumph,” Newsweek raves “smashing” and Entertainment Weekly sums it up as “Broadway’s most electrifying show.”

Tickets are $75, $65 and $50 for students with valid I.D. Call 406-256-6052 (box office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m.) or ordeer online at www.albertabairtheater.org.