TexARTS Teen Musical Theatre Academy Presents CHICAGO

TexARTS' Teen Musical Theatre Academy is jazzed to present Kander & Ebb's blockbuster hit Chicago. The production will run April 1 - 9 at the Kam & James Morris Theatre at TexARTS.

This production of Chicago is directed and choreographed by Darren Gibson with musical direction by Tyler Groft. Mr. Gibson's background and knowledge of Bob Fosse's style (the show's original choreographer) will undoubtedly create a production worth seeing. Gibson worked directly with Ann Reinking, who originated the role of "Roxie" in the '97 revival, on the first national tour of Fosse. He would later serve as the resident director/choreographer of London's West End production of Fosse.

"This show has been in the making since my arrival to TexARTS in 2010," Gibson said. "Slowly, as my students began to advance, I started to introduce them to Fosse. After time, I finally had a cast. They earned it, and what better gift to give."

The hit of the 1997 Broadway season, this sleek, sizzling musical won six Tony awards including best revival. Full of deliciously wicked fun, Chicago tells the sordid tale of two cheap chorines, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly who "off" their lovers. These two hardened jailbirds then vie for the spotlight and the headlines, hoping the publicity will catapult them to fame, freedom and successful stage careers. With its Fosse inspired choreography, this sharp edged look at murder and mayhem is a toe-tapping, knife- throwing, good time for the mature members of the family. The powerhouse includes "All That Jazz", "Cell Block Tango" and "Mr. Cellophane".

Reserved seats are $15 and can be purchased at www.tex-arts.org or by calling TexARTS Box Office at 512-852-9079 x101. Contains adult themes.

All performances will be held at Kam & James Morris Theatre at TexARTS' Erin Doherty Studios, 2300 Lohman's Spur, Suite #160, Lakeway, TX. Parking is free.

TexARTS, the Lake Travis nonprofit for the visual and performing arts, offers completely staged professional productions and is a performing and visual arts educational academy. TexARTS is proud to employ hundreds of professional regional actors, musicians and artistic staff living here in Austin.