Why is this revival of CHICAGO the longest-running American musical in Broadway history?
Is it because the show is sexy, the dancers are sexy, the ad campaign is sexy, and sex sells?
Is it because the Oscar-winning film extended its shelf life?
Is it because it's the kind of show you don't need to understand English to enjoy? (hence, an appeal to foreign visitors?)
Is the running cost lower than many other shows?
Is it the tone and themes of the piece -- the cynical, bruised, yet ever-beating heart?
If anyone knows, I'd love to hear it.
I'll happily say that the show felt edgy and timeless as soon as it landed back in 1996, and that stark ad campaign still looks like nothing else in NYC. But of all Broadway musicals that deserve an endless berth on Broadway, I wouldn't hand that honor to CHICAGO. I could see it for something like THE SOUND OF MUSIC or GUYS & DOLLS or FIDDLER.
Why hasn't Broadway gotten tired of CHICAGO?
- GMB |
