Chicago 50 - No. 46 - Opening Night

Bob and Gwen on opening night. Photos by Martha Swope.

Of opening night: “The audience adored it—they even applauded when the lights first went down—and there are things, very very positive things, for everyone to adore, not least the performers. Both the girls dance their hearts out, together, singly, or leading the splendid band of gypsies who make up most of the rest of the cast. Miss Verdon’s voice, all candy innocence and yet somehow naughtily suggestive of untold viciousness, is perfectly matched by the strangulated tones of Miss Rivera’s blasé worldliness. 

“‘Chicago’ despite its disappointments, is easily one of the best musicals of the season; it is brassy, sassy, raunchy but mechanical.

—Clive Barnes, New York Times, June 4, 1975

Chita and Ann Reinking on opening night. Photos by Martha Swope.

Gwen and Bob with daughter Nicole. Photos by Martha Swope.