Learning dance moves from ‘Velma Kelly’ from Broadway’s ‘Chicago’

WGNO’s Kenny Lopez got a backstage pass to learn the signature choreography from the classic show.

The show is set in 1920s Chicago and follows two vaudeville murderesses Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart. Both ladies turn to the character lawyer Billy Flynn to help them fight the law.

(Courtesy: Jeremy Daniel)

Taylor Lane plays Velma Kelly in the Broadway tour of “Chicago.”

“I love her,” Lane said. “Velma is so complex, and there are so many dimensions to her. She’s raw and knows what she wants and goes for it. When something gets in her way, she pivots and hops over the obstacles. I admire that about her.”

When she was learning musical theater in college that’s when Lane said she learned the style of dance known as the Fosse which is featured in “Chicago.” The Fosse style of dance blends burlesque and jazz movements.

(Courtesy: Jeremy Daniel)

Lane is originally from Chicago.

“Part of Velma’s grit is being from the city and I have some big city girl in me,” Lane said.

She said that the show has mass appeal.

“We are dealing with the same issues in the show that we are dealing with today,” Lane said. “It is a well-rounded show and anyone who comes to see it will enjoy it.”

“Chicago” is playing at the Saenger Theatre through Sunday, June 15. For ticket information.

(Courtesy: Jeremy Daniel)

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