Chicago – The Musical at Benedum Center Pittsburgh

Based on the 1926 play written by Maurine Dallas Watkins, Chicago is one of the most iconic theatrical productions of all times. The performance explores the depth and distance mankind takes to maintain power.

characters

Featuring leading roles like Roxie Hart, Velma Kelly, Billy Flynn, Matron "Mama" Morton, and others, the musical centers around corruption, betrayal, ambition, and the dark side of fame. Chicago was inspired by a play of the identical name by Maurine Dallas Watkins, which was based on real-life events.

storyline

The tale unfolds with Roxie, a young and ambitious vaudeville dancer, who shoots her lover "Fred Casely" after he refuses to advance her vaudeville career, and disregarding their relation. The story unfolds, and Roxie becomes aware of the fame she has attracted as a female criminal. Like Roxie's desire to escape her mundane life, through time Chicago will introduce you to numerous like-minded people, with the same or similar intentions. Among them is Velma, an seasoned, self-assured, sharp-minded, and competitive vaudeville icon who killed her partner and sister after finding them in the same bed. However, afterward, she starts to struggle with restoring her fame as Roxie has already stolen the spotlight from her.

The show also features Billy Flynn, a manipulative, and charming lawyer who is defending Both Roxie, and Velma, and is also highly motivated by fortune, and seemingly indifferent to the justice he is serving. Chicago also turns attention to the other side to unveil that the desire for power isn't only for the privileged, instead it's in every one of us, circling back to, Matron "Mama" Morton, a tough, sensible, and "a stone cold jail queen", who is not seen reaching the climax but yet isn't averse to exploiting situations for personal advantage.

history & awards

It's safe to say Chicago is the musical version of "The Godfather", showcasing the game mankind plays to reach life's climax. The performance has won over 20 major recognitions including: 6 Tony Awards in 1976 for, Best Musical, Book of a Musical, Original Score, Choreography, Featured Actress in a Musical (Gwen Verdon), and Director of a Musical (Bob Fosse), 6 additional Tony Awards in 1997, Drama Desk Awards, Olivier Awards, and a Grammy Award for its cast recordings, And the 2003 Academy Award for Best Picture for the film adaptation.

Chicago remains one of the landmark musical of our age, although it has provoked countless criticisms on moral ambiguity, celebrity culture, justice and legal norms, and feminism and empowerment.

Eager to witness the artistry of the criminal, secure your tickets now before Chicago makes its sensational appearance in Pittsburgh, at the impressive Benedum Center, on Wednesday 11th March 2026 for as little as $252 per seat!