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Johannesburg audiences are falling in love all over again with the iconic musical that defined Broadway cool. Presented by Showtime Management in association with Barry & Fran Weissler, Chicago The Musical has lit up the stage at Montecasino’s Teatro for its Gauteng run — a season so wildly popular that it’s already been extended to 16 November.
If you’ve ever dreamed of being a showgirl in another life, this performance will make that fantasy gleam a little brighter.
First created in 1975 by the legendary Broadway trio John Kander (music), Fred Ebb (book and lyrics), and Bob Fosse (co-author, original director and choreographer), Chicago is rooted in real-life intrigue. The story was inspired by a 1926 play written by journalist Maurine Dallas Watkins, who covered the sensational murder trials of two women accused of killing their lovers in Jazz Age Chicago. The musical became a razor-sharp satire on fame, corruption, and the seductive power of the spotlight.
After a dazzling Broadway revival in 1996, Chicago went on to conquer the world — from London’s West End to South Africa’s stages — becoming the longest-running musical revival in Broadway history and the second longest-running musical overall, with over 35,000 performances across 38 countries.
This 2025 South African revival proves once again that local talent can deliver Broadway brilliance. Kiruna-Lind Devar (Evita, MAMMA MIA!) shines as the ambitious and naive Roxie Hart, while the ever-magnetic Samantha Peo (Chicago World Tour 2018 & 2019) returns as the fierce and fabulous Velma Kelly.
The cast is rounded out by powerhouse performances from Tankiso Mamabolo (Matron Mama Morton), Jonathan Roxmouth (Billy Flynn), Dean de Klerk (Amos Hart), and M.E. Marvey (Mary Sunshine). Together, they deliver a slick, sultry and sophisticated production filled with wit, rhythm and that signature Chicago attitude.
Supporting them is an ensemble bursting with talent — both returning favourites from the 2018/2019 tour and exciting newcomers who bring an undeniable energy to the stage.
“This is a show that just keeps on making audiences happy,” says Hazel Feldman of Showtime Management. “Fame, ambition, corruption and murder are always going to be compelling subjects — and in Chicago, our world-class cast really lifts this enduring story to a new level.”
With jazz-infused hits like “All That Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango,” and “Razzle Dazzle,” the production proves that Chicago’s themes of power, celebrity, and reinvention remain as relevant as ever. Beloved classics came back to life with standout numbers such as “When You’re Good to Mama,” “All I Care About,” and “My Own Best Friend.” Even “We Both Reached for the Gun” — a number that’s recently found new life on TikTok — drew delighted recognition from the crowd, turning the theatre into one big sing-along moment.
All that jazz made for a night of laughter, singing, and dancing as Chicago The Musical unfolded on stage. The cast’s voices rang through the Teatro with power and precision, transporting the audience straight into the chaotic charm of the Cook County Jail. Mama’s voice boomed with authority, while the live orchestra added depth and drama to every moment — stepping into the spotlight themselves as each scene transitioned. The choreography was nothing short of electric, a masterclass in synchronicity and stamina, with not a note or step out of place. If you’ve ever dreamed of being a showgirl in another life, this performance will make that fantasy gleam a little brighter.
By the time the final number hit, the audience was entirely enthralled — clapping, cheering, laughing, and even dancing in their seats. There’s a special kind of magic in seeing a classic come alive with such charisma and confidence, and this Johannesburg run proves that Chicago still has every ounce of its sparkle. The audience was a mixture of young and old; all dressed to the nines for a night out on the town. Between the glitz, grit, and unmistakable flair, the night was a dazzling reminder that great theatre never goes out of style.
Better yet, there is still time for you to see the magic for yourself:
🎟️ Tickets available at Ticketmaster.co.za
📅 Now showing until 16 November 2025
🔞 PG10+ (Parental guidance advised)
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Johannesburg audiences are falling in love all over again with the iconic musical that defined Broadway cool. Presented by Showtime Management in association with Barry & Fran Weissler, Chicago The Musical has lit up the stage at Montecasino’s Teatro for its Gauteng run — a season so wildly popular that it’s already been extended to 16 November.
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