All the Razzle Dazzling Performers Who Have Played Roxie and Velma in Chicago

June 3 marks the 50th anniversary of Chicago—because that was the date it opened on Broadway originally in 1975, at the 46th Street Theatre. That original production ran just two years, but then, in 1996, the show was brought back to the Main Stem, where it still runs to this day. With its killer score and knock-’em-dead Bob Fosse dance numbers, Chicago has become a favorite for Broadway first-timers. It has something for everyone: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz.

With a book by the late Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, music by John Kander, and lyrics by Ebb, Chicago tells a Vaudeville-era tale of aspiring chorus girl Roxie Hart and fading star Velma Kelly, each facing trial for murder. Both as cynical as they are sexy, the two women compete for the services of shady lawyer Billy Flynn, who promises to make them media celebrities and win them acquittals.

But how do you become Broadway's longest currently running show? With casting.

The production is now notorious for its "star casting," or, bringing in celebrities to star in leading roles. It works surprisingly well considering the context of the show, which is largely about the concept of celebrity itself.

Musical theatre legend Gwen Verdon originated the role of fame-chasing Roxie Hart in 1975. Since then, actors such as Liza Minnelli, Ann Reinking, Brooke Shields, Pamela Anderson, and so many others have been the name on everybody's lips. See every woman who has played Roxie in the gallery below. Then scroll down to see all the Velmas!