the mommy avenger

I still remember seeing Chicago the movie when it first came out — that slick, sultry mix of murder, fame, and jazz absolutely captivated me. Not long after, I saw the musical live on Broadway back in 2007. It was one of my earliest theater experiences, and it completely hooked me. The movie and the stage version are similar in story, but they have such different energies — and from the first time I saw it live, I knew there was something extra special about Chicago on stage.

Fast forward almost twenty years and hundreds of musicals later, and I found myself back in New York City this week with the chance to revisit this timeless classic. The moment I realized Chicago was playing at the Ambassador Theatre, I knew I had to go. Seeing this show again felt like catching up with an old friend — familiar but thrilling in new ways.

Walking into the Ambassador is an experience in itself. The theater is gorgeous, full of that old Broadway charm that makes you instantly feel like you’re part of something magical. There’s an energy in the air, a quiet anticipation as the lights dim and the orchestra takes their place on stage. And the second those first notes started — that unmistakable Chicago overture — I knew we were in for a phenomenal night.

This production of Chicago features an absolutely stellar cast. I had the incredible luck of seeing Mira Sorvino — yes, that Mira Sorvino — making her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart. What a treat! She brought this sharp wit and playful sparkle to the role that made it impossible not to love her. Seeing such a familiar face up close, performing live, added an extra layer of excitement.

Sophie Carmen-Jones as Velma Kelly completely blew me away. When she kicked off the show with “All That Jazz,” the entire theater lit up. She owned that stage — every movement, every note, every sly grin. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen anyone inhabit a role quite like she did. She was electric.

Tam Mutu as Billy Flynn was equally phenomenal. Smooth, confident, and full of charm, his rendition of “All I Care About Is Love” had the audience completely hooked. Between the powerhouse vocals, razor-sharp choreography, and that signature Chicago sass, this cast delivered everything I hoped for and more.

For anyone unfamiliar, Chicago tells the story of Roxie Hart, a chorus girl in the 1920s who murders her lover and ends up in jail alongside nightclub star Velma Kelly. Both women use their crimes — and the media frenzy surrounding them — to chase fame and fortune. It’s a sharp, witty satire on celebrity culture, justice, and the price of fame, all set to one of the most iconic jazz-infused scores in musical theater history.

After nearly twenty years and countless musicals later, I was amazed at how fresh and thrilling Chicago still feels. I’ve seen so many incredible productions since my first time in 2007, but this one reminded me exactly why Chicago has remained one of my all-time favorites. The music, the choreography, the humor — it’s all pure Broadway brilliance.

Of course, some of my favorite moments were those unforgettable numbers:

• “All That Jazz” – the ultimate opener that never fails to get your heart racing.
• “Cell Block Tango” – powerful, darkly funny, and one of the best ensemble numbers ever.
• “We Both Reached for the Gun” – a hilarious, show-stopping number that still feels perfectly relevant.
• “Razzle Dazzle” – the glittering reminder that in showbiz (and life), it’s all about the performance.

There’s a reason Chicago is Broadway’s longest-running American musical — it’s simply that good. Even after all these years, it still sizzles with energy, wit, and that irresistible jazz-age sparkle.

If you find yourself in New York City, I can’t recommend seeing Chicago enough. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, it’s the kind of show that reminds you why live theater is so magical. And if you can catch Mira Sorvino in her limited run as Roxie Hart before November 2, 2025, don’t miss it — it’s an unforgettable performance and a truly special moment for Broadway.

For tickets and more info, visit chicagothemusical.com.

Because sometimes, all you need is a little razzle dazzle — and Chicago delivers it in spades.

^{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*}