‘CHICAGO’ stages Manila comeback after 13 years

The Tony Award-winning musical “CHICAGO” returns to Manila in March 2027, more than a decade after its first Philippine staging.

GMG Productions, in association with Barry & Fran Weissler and David Ian, will stage “CHICAGO The Musical” from March 9 to 28, 2027, at The Theatre at Solaire. The production first opened in Manila in 2014 and is now celebrating 30 years on Broadway.

Since its Broadway revival, the musical has staged more than 11,700 performances, reached over 35 million people worldwide, and toured 38 countries and more than 525 cities.

A Manila homecoming

Carlos Candal, CEO of GMG Productions, said the musical’s return carries added significance because it will once again be staged at the venue where it made its Philippine debut.

“‘CHICAGO’ is one of those extraordinary shows that never goes out of style. It’s sexy, sophisticated, provocative and wickedly funny, with incredible music, iconic Bob Fosse choreography, and a story of fame, ambition, scandal, and celebrity that remains as relevant as ever,” Candal said.

Barry Weissler, producer of the musical, also welcomed the return to Manila, recalling its role in the venue’s opening in 2014.

“It was such an honor to be chosen as the inaugural production at the grand opening of The Theatre at Solaire back in 2014, so for ‘CHICAGO’ to return to Manila next year and take that same stage again is a real homecoming,” he said.

Fame, crime and showbiz

Set in 1920s Chicago, the musical follows Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who is put on trial for murder. With the help of slick lawyer Billy Flynn, she attempts to turn her crime into a media spectacle, only to find herself competing for public attention with fellow inmate and nightclub star Velma Kelly.

The musical features a book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, music by John Kander, and lyrics by Ebb. Its best-known numbers include “All That Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango,” “Razzle Dazzle,” and “Nowadays.”

The original Broadway revival was directed by Tony Award winner Walter Bobbie and choreographed by Tony Award winner Ann Reinking. Its creative team also included John Lee Beatty, William Ivey Long, Ken Billington, and Ricke Clarke.

A six-time Tony Award winner, including Best Musical Revival, “CHICAGO” remains one of Broadway’s longest-running musicals.

David Ian, co-producer of Crossroads Live, said the Manila engagement is part of the production’s 30th anniversary global tour.

“We’re delighted to announce the return of ‘CHICAGO’ to The Theatre at Solaire in March 2027 as part of its red-hot 30th Anniversary global tour. ‘CHICAGO’ truly is the triple-threat musical that combines the sensational choreography of Bob Fosse, with the master melodies of John Kander and satirical lyrics of Fred Ebb,” Ian said.

Tickets will be available through TicketWorld. UnionBank cardholders can access the presale from October 12 to 15, 2026, with a 10% discount. The GMGP Waitlist Presale follows on October 16, also offering 10% off, before tickets go on sale to the general public on October 19.

Interested buyers can register through this link.