Revitalizing the Legacy of Roxie: A Fresh Take on the Iconic Role in “Chicago”
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The Enduring Allure of Roxie Hart
The character of Roxie Hart has captivated audiences for decades, becoming a symbol of fame and notoriety. As the protagonist of the musical “Chicago,” Roxie’s persona has attracted a diverse array of stars-from film icons to pop sensations-each bringing their unique interpretation to the role. Since Gwen Verdon’s original portrayal in 1975 and Ann Reinking’s revival debut in 1996, the role has served as a revolving door for performers eager to leave their mark on this iconic character. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of “Chicago” on Broadway this month, we explore insights from ten actresses who have embodied Roxie, revealing the multifaceted nature of this legendary role.
Transforming into Roxie: From Inspiration to Performance
The musical “Chicago” was adapted from Maurine Dallas Watkins’s 1926 play, inspired by sensational murder trials from 1924 and the ensuing media frenzy. The original production was directed and choreographed by Bob Fosse, featuring his wife Gwen Verdon as Roxie and Chita Rivera as Velma. Ann Reinking, a protégée of Fosse, played Roxie in the 1996 revival, which remains Broadway’s longest-running current production. Over the years, actresses have shared their journeys of stepping into Roxie’s shoes, each bringing their personal touch to the role.
Actor and performer Nemetz recalls the privilege of working closely with Gwen Verdon, observing her meticulous approach and trust in Fosse’s direction. Neuwirth reminisces about her childhood fascination with the show, having seen the original cast perform on Broadway at age 16, and how she played the record until it wore out. Anderson describes her emotional journey of auditioning and eventually portraying Roxie, emphasizing the personal growth and self-discovery that came with the role. Williams shares how her background in pop and R&B dance, including training with choreographer Frank Gatson, prepared her for the show’s demanding choreography, while Wilson recounts her initial intimidation and eventual confidence in performing Roxie, supported by her husband, actor Tom Hanks.
Madix reflects on her lifelong dream of Broadway, which was realized through her portrayal of Roxie, while Milano discusses her unconventional path-auditioning after decades away from singing and dancing, driven by her love for theater and the desire to revisit her passion. Each actress’s story underscores the transformative power of embodying Roxie Hart, a role that demands versatility, charisma, and resilience.
Portraying the Charismatic and Complex Roxie
While Velma Kelly, the vaudeville star accused of murder, is known for her show-stopping numbers like “All That Jazz” and “Cell Block Tango,” Roxie’s role offers a broader canvas for performers due to its comparatively accessible choreography. Nemetz notes that the original Fosse version required a dancer’s finesse, making it a rare opportunity for performers with strong dance backgrounds. Neuwirth highlights her own experience playing Velma for nearly two years and then transitioning to Roxie, even after undergoing hip replacement surgery at 47, demonstrating the character’s enduring appeal.
Actresses describe Roxie as a character who is both cunning and endearing. Wilson appreciates her quick wit and her ability to manipulate situations to her advantage, while Simpson admires her unpredictability and raw ambition. D’Amboise emphasizes Roxie’s resilience in facing adversity, and Marroquín notes her bubbly, naive exterior masking vulnerability-traits that make her deeply human. Williams points out how Roxie’s presence on stage is commanding, requiring performers to summon confidence and energy, often drawing from their own experiences as performers in other genres.
Musical Moments that Define Roxie
Roxie’s signature songs-“Funny Honey” and “Roxie”-serve as windows into her personality and aspirations. “Funny Honey,” a heartfelt ballad dedicated to her husband Amos, reveals her vulnerability and spontaneous nature. Neuwirth describes her portrayal as capturing Roxie’s drunken, impulsive side, while Wilson appreciates the musical’s clever rhymes and its portrayal of her manipulative charm. Milano interprets “Funny Honey” as a love song that also hints at Roxie’s dependence on her relationship with Amos, which ultimately turns sour when he betrays her.
“Roxie,” the show-stopping anthem, is a celebration of self-love and vanity. D’Amboise recalls the electrifying energy of Ann Reinking’s performance, emphasizing the number’s playful freedom. Williams describes it as a moment of pure joy and sexiness, while Madix highlights its emotional depth-each actress bringing her own intensity to the song. The lyrics, listing her features and aspirations, resonate with audiences as a satirical take on celebrity obsession, a theme still relevant today.
The Illusory Nature of Fame
Despite her fleeting moments of fame and eventual acquittal, Roxie quickly learns that celebrity is ephemeral. Milano comments on her character’s superficial rise to stardom, driven by sensationalism and false promises, only to be brought back to reality. Simpson relates to the transient nature of fame, recognizing how quickly public favor can shift. Wilson reflects on her own relationship with fame, contrasting Roxie’s blatant desire for recognition with her more reserved personality. Madix shares her personal experience of feeling the pressure of public scrutiny, using her role as a platform to prove her worth.
Images of actresses embodying Roxie, from the original stage performers to contemporary stars, illustrate the role’s versatility and enduring appeal. Each performer’s interpretation adds a new layer to Roxie’s complex persona, ensuring her legacy remains vibrant and relevant.
Final Acts and the Enduring Spirit of Roxie
The musical concludes with Roxie and Velma performing a vaudevillian duet, wistfully reflecting on the fleeting nature of fame and the importance of cherishing the present. Nemetz recalls the original numbers, which included playful acts like Roxie playing saxophone and Velma on drums, before evolving into the current “Nowadays” number, which encapsulates Roxie’s acceptance of life’s constant change. Wilson appreciates the song’s clever lyrics and its commentary on the pursuit of celebrity, while Neuwirth admires the elegance of the performance, emphasizing the harmony and unity between the characters.
Actresses like Anderson and Milano describe their emotional connection to “Nowadays,” recognizing it as a reflection on life’s impermanence. Madix admits that singing this song often brings her to tears, as it encapsulates the bittersweet reality of chasing dreams in show business. The song’s message remains profoundly relevant, reminding performers and audiences alike that change is the only constant in life.
Roxie’s Enduring Legacy in Musical Theatre
Few roles in musical theatre boast such a diverse array of interpretations as Roxie Hart. From Renée Zellweger’s Oscar-winning portrayal in the 2002 film adaptation to stage performances by Brooke Shields, America Ferrera, Melanie Griffith, Brandy Norwood, Mel B, Ashley Graham, and Liza Minnelli, the character continues to inspire new generations of performers. D’Amboise reflects on her long association with the show, noting that its flexibility and openness to fresh interpretations have kept it alive and thriving. Madix marvels at her journey from a childhood theater enthusiast to a record-breaking star, emphasizing the role’s transformative power.
Simpson considers her involvement with Roxie a connection to a legacy of powerful women, while Neuwirth cherishes the profound impact the role has had on her life. Marroquín envisions the original creators-Gwen Verdon, Chita Rivera, Bob Fosse-watching from above, proud of how their vision continues to evolve. Milano describes the experience of stepping into Roxie’s shoes as surreal yet deeply romantic, feeling the weight and honor of carrying forward a character that has become a cultural icon.
