Chicago Broadway Tickets: See the Iconic Musical Live

Chicago on Broadway is a Tony Award-winning musical playing at the historic Ambassador Theatre in New York City, set in the Jazz Age and centered on Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly as they navigate fame, crime, and media attention in a world of “murder, greed, corruption, and all that jazz.” Featuring Bob Fosse’s iconic choreography and the classic score by John Kander and Fred Ebb, the production is known for its sleek, minimalist staging that focuses on performance over elaborate sets. Bold, stylish, and endlessly entertaining, Chicago remains one of Broadway’s longest-running and most iconic shows.

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Chicago on Broadway

Highlights

Enjoy an electrifying performance set in 1920s Chicago.

Witness compelling stories of crime, ambition, and showbiz.

Hear iconic songs such as “All That Jazz” and “Razzle Dazzle!”.

See the tale of two rival performers in alleging murder cases.

Be captivated by one of Broadway’s longest-running musicals with multiple awards.

About Chicago On Broadway

Chicago originally premiered on Broadway in 1975, created by John Kander, Fred Ebb, and choreographer Bob Fosse. Inspired by a 1926 play based on real court cases from the Jazz Age, it offered a sharp, satirical look at fame, crime, and media sensationalism in 1920s Chicago. While the original production received attention, it was the 1996 Broadway revival that became the definitive version of the show, known for its stripped-back staging and strong focus on Fosse-style choreography and its jazz-driven score.

The revival went on to become a major success, winning six Tony Awards including Best Revival of a Musical and earning a Grammy Award for its cast recording. It has since become the longest-running American musical in Broadway history, with thousands of performances and international productions staged around the world. The story also reached a wider audience through the 2002 film adaptation, which introduced it to new global fans.

Today, Chicago continues to play at the Ambassador Theatre in New York City and remains a long-running Broadway staple. Known for its minimalist staging, live on-stage orchestra, and iconic songs like “All That Jazz” and “Cell Block Tango,” the production still feels sharp and relevant, drawing audiences with its blend of style, satire, and timeless energy.

Find Your Seat: Theater Sections Guide

Ambassador Theatre

The Ambassador Theatre is located at 219 West 49th Street in Midtown Manhattan and has been a Broadway fixture since it opened in 1921. Designed by Herbert J. Krapp, it is known for its compact, slightly diagonal layout that fits tightly into its city block while keeping audiences close to the stage. Today, it is best known as the longtime home of Chicago on Broadway, matching the show’s intimate, jazz-age style with its classic, vintage atmosphere.

Seating at the Ambassador Theatre is designed to offer good visibility across most sections due to its small, intimate size. The Center Orchestra provides the closest and most direct view of the stage, while the Front Mezzanine is widely considered one of the best overall choices for a balanced, elevated perspective of the performance. These sections give a clear view of choreography and stage movement, which is central to Chicago.

For more budget-friendly options, the side Orchestra and upper Mezzanine sections still provide solid sightlines, though with slightly angled views depending on the seat. Rear Mezzanine seats are the most affordable, but the theater’s compact design helps maintain decent visibility and strong acoustics even at the back. Overall, the venue ensures a close, engaging experience of the show from nearly every section.

Fun Facts About Chicago On Broadway

The Ultimate American Record: Chicago holds the historic crown as the longest-running American musical—and the longest-running revival—in the entire history of Broadway.

The Stage-Bound Band: Breaking traditional theater layouts, the production positions its elite live orchestra directly on the stage inside a tiered, central jury box rather than hiding them in a pit.

A Re-imagined Triumph: The version playing today is actually a minimalist 1996 revival that famously stripped away the original 1975 production’s elaborate scenery to focus entirely on Fosse’s legendary dance style.

The Genius Diagonal Layout: Because the city lot was so narrow, architect Herbert J. Krapp diagonally rotated the entire auditorium structure at a 45-degree angle to maximize seating capacity.

A Hidden Architectural Secret: Despite its beautifully grand interior, the venue's exterior is completely hidden from view, tucked seamlessly behind a standard, low-profile 49th Street commercial facade.

A Centennial Milestone: Having officially opened its doors on February 11, 1921, the historic venue celebrated its monumental 100th year of continuous Broadway operation in 2021.

FAQs

Where is the Ambassador Theatre located?

The theater is located at 219 West 49th Street, between Broadway and 8th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan.

How long is a performance of Chicago?

The total running time is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, which includes one standard 15-minute intermission.

Are there elevators or escalators inside the theater?

No, because the Ambassador is a historic 1921 building, there are no elevators or escalators; the Mezzanine level requires climbing 38 steps.

What is the age recommendation for Chicago?

The show is recommended for audiences aged 12 to 13 and up due to adult themes, and children under the age of 4 are strictly not permitted inside the auditorium.

Is the theater wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the main Orchestra level is completely step-free from the sidewalk via a designated side entrance, housing all of the theater's accessible seating.

Can I buy food and drinks inside the venue?

Yes, concession stands are located on both levels selling snacks and drinks, but only bottled water is permitted past the lobby to be consumed at your seat.

Are there strobe lights used in the performance?

No, Chicago relies on a minimalist, traditional lighting design and does not feature intense stadium-style strobe effects.

Can I take photos during the show?

You are welcome to take photos of the stage and your Playbill before the show starts or during intermission, but all photography and recording are strictly illegal during the performance.