Bob Fosse's "Chicago" has been performed to rave reviews at stages around the world. Here is a 1998 performance at a unique location--the White House! Bebe Neuwirth and Karen Ziemba portray the Prohibition-era merry murderesses Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, who are practicing the vaudeville act that will make them stars upon their release from prison. It's based on a true story!
John Kander and Fred Ebb did the music and lyrics, Ebb and Fosse the book, Fosse the choreography and direction. In the introduction Ms. Neuwirth gives some explanation of the signature Fosse style of dance and then goes on to demonstrate in two songs: "I Can't Do It Alone" and "Hot Honey Rag."
The Broadway greats, Chita Rivera and Gwen Verdon (Fosse's wife), originated the parts of Velma and Roxie in 1975; that show ran for two years. Bebe Neuwirth, along with choreographer/dancer Anne Reinking, headlined the revival which opened in 1996 and is still going, the longest-running musical revival on Broadway (and the fourth longest show). Ms. Neuwirth won a Tony for Best Actress in a musical.
If you haven't seen Bebe Neuwirth on Broadway, you might remember her as the uptight Dr. Lilith Sternin (Crane) from TV's Cheers and Frasier. She's wearing remarkably less clothing here!
