Broadway’s enduring connection with Hawaii deepens this holiday season as the acclaimed musical Chicago arrives in Honolulu. Part of the Broadway in Hawaii series, this touring production offers an exciting opportunity for local audiences to experience the drama and music without traveling to the mainland. The show runs from December 3 to December 7, 2025, at the Blaisdell Concert Hall.
This production features the talented Ellie Roddy in the lead role of Roxie Hart, a housewife turned murderess in 1920s Chicago. The storyline follows Roxie’s descent into crime after she kills her unfaithful boyfriend in a fit of rage. Facing a murder charge, she seeks the help of the charismatic lawyer Billy Flynn, renowned for defending women embroiled in scandalous cases.
Joining Roddy is Claire Marshall as Velma Kelly, a seasoned vaudeville performer also accused of murder. As the narrative unfolds, the rivalry between Roxie and Velma intensifies, especially after Flynn decides to focus on Roxie’s case, leaving Velma to fend for herself. The dynamic between these two characters adds a layer of tension, highlighting the competitive nature of fame and media attention.
Set against the backdrop of a corrupt legal system, Chicago serves as a sharp satire of the moral decay in society and the sensationalism surrounding celebrity criminals. The musical draws inspiration from real-life murder trials that captivated Chicago in the 1920s.
The score, composed by John Kander with lyrics by Fred Ebb, is a highlight of the production. Iconic numbers such as “All That Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango,” and “Mister Cellophane” have become staples in the musical theatre repertoire, contributing to the show’s lasting popularity.
Hawaii’s rich history with Broadway is evident, as many local talents, including Ed Kenney, Loretta Ables Sayre, and Janel Parrish, have made significant contributions to the stage. With the arrival of Chicago, audiences can enjoy a taste of Broadway without the logistical challenges posed by distance and economic constraints.
Tickets for Chicago are available through the official website, BroadwayInHawaii.com. This production promises to be a vibrant addition to the local arts scene, inviting residents and visitors alike to engage with this classic musical during the festive season.
