The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts presents Chicago from Tuesday, November 7 through Sunday November 12 with tickets starting at $34 at Kravis.org.
After 26 years, CHICAGO is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz, with one show-stopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen. No wonder CHICAGO has been honored with six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards, a Grammy, and thousands of standing ovations. As the show celebrates its 26th anniversary — you’ve got to come see why the name on everyone’s lips is still…CHICAGO.
CHICAGO is the longest-running American musical in Broadway and West End History and is the second longest running show in Broadway history, having surpassed Cats in November 2014. The Broadway production has over 9,500 performances.
CHICAGO has been graced by many stars throughout its 25 years on Broadway, including Bebe Neuwirth, Ann Reinking, James Naughton, Joel Grey, Jasmine Guy, Sharon Lawrence, Marilu Henner, Sandy Duncan, Michael C. Hall, Wayne Brady, Melanie Griffith, Paige Davis, Jennifer Holliday, Taye Diggs, Brooke Shields, Linda Carter, Sofia Vergara, Kevin Richardson, Huey Lewis, Robin Givens, John O’Hurley, Usher, Lisa Rinna, Harry Hamlin, Aida Turturro, Vincent Pastore, Brian McKnight, John Schneider, Melora Hardin, Chandra Wilson, Christie Brinkley, Ashlee Simpson, Billy Ray Cyrus, Jennifer Nettles, Mel B, Cuba Gooding Jr. and many more.
It was a pleasure to sit down with Katie Frieden, who plays Roxie Hart, for this exclusive Hotspots interview.
At what age did you begin performing?
I started dancing at the age of 4 and I have been dancing ever since. I got into musical theater in High school.
What was your first paid gig?
Well, my first job out of college was summer stock theater productions of Fame and Sweet Charity (I played Sweet Charity) which is another Bob Fosse role.
When did you know performing would be your career?
I don’t know if there was a specific moment, but I just gradually got more serious in dance and then when I went to college for dance at Oklahoma City University is when I knew I was going to try and make a career out of this.
Chicago is so Iconic, as is the part of Roxie Hart. Is there extra pressure playing this role and being in this show?
Yeah, I think a lot of the pressure comes from so many incredible people, and many of my heroes, having played this role. They are such big shoes to step into. It’s one of the hardest parts to step into, but also one of the most rewarding parts as I get to step into this legacy.
Other than this one, what has been your favorite role so far?
I think my other favorite role was Sweet Charity. In addition, another role I loved was when I did an immersion production of Bridgerton it was called “The Queens Ball of Bridgerton Experience” and it was acting through dance, and I got to play the role of Daphne.
What’s your fantasy role (a role you haven’t played but want to)?
Anything that has to do with dance and particularly that has to do with Fosse. I would love to play Lola in “Damn Yankees.”
Is it hard being on the road all the time?
Yeah, it can be, but there are also wonderful parts of it. I get to visit so many cities I would have never been able to go to. Another great bonus is being able to perform in so many iconic theaters.
How well do you and your castmates get along?
So far great, but we are just starting this tour in WPB. I am so excited to see where the journey takes us.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Passionate, kind, and determined.
What do you do for fun?
I love to hang out with my friends and my family. I love to go to coffee shops and talk, and I also love to go shopping.
What should our readers expect from this touring company of “Chicago”?
I think everybody should come to see Chicago. This production is a perfect blend of keeping up the legacy of Chicago with a fresh take. We have a strong and exciting energy in this new company. I hope everyone comes out and shares in this strong energy of live theater. I think the energy will be even more exciting as WPB as it’s our first stop on this new tour.
For more information on Katie follow her on: Instagram.com/Katiefrieden8.
For more information on Chicago, visit Chicagoontour.com/
Tickets for Chicago are on sale at kravis.org. To purchase by phone or in person, call 561.832.7469 or visit the Box Office Monday through Friday from 12pm to 5pm.
