Theater

She starts an eight-week run in BroadwaysChicagoon Sept. 12.

She was on top of the world, and the theater.

It gave me this very interesting birds eye view of my dream, she tells Bustle.

In the musical Chicago, Broadway actor Angelica Ross will make history as Roxie Hart.

Ross is more than ready to join those ranks.

When the moment you meet affirms everything you thought was right.

Was musical theater something you always wanted to do?

In her Broadway debut, Angelica Ross joins the cast of Chicago on Broadway as Roxie Hart.

Broadway was my number one dream.

I remember they cast me inGreaseas Teen Angel, because theyd seena Black actor play the Teen Angel.

It didnt hit me until I was inPose.

Brandy was in the cast of Chicago on Broadway, joining the musical years ahead of Angelica Ross.

Oh wow, thats incredible.

[He] influenced my career from the beginning.

What was your first introduction toChicago?

Pamela Anderson was in the cast of Broadway’s Chicago, as is Angelica Ross. Previous Roxie Harts hav…

I saw a production of it years ago.

I have the DVD, honestly, on my dream board.

So its been a full-circle moment to be in the show.

Many people have played Roxieover the years.

What are you excited to bring to your version of her?

Im excited to bring a layer of universality.

When we talk about things being universal, that means they should include trans people.

Which numbers are you most looking forward to performing?

My favorite song so far is My Own Best Friend.

I just cant take anything for granted.

Youre joining a brilliant group of trans performers who appear on Broadway.

What does it mean for you to become part of that tradition?

Because I am having that experience right now.

Have you gotten to talk with anyChicagoalums?

So many people have done stints in this musical over the years.

Erika Jaynecalled me and we got to talk.

So I know where to actually stop on the ladder.

I reached out toBrandy, whos been so warm and welcoming.

I asked her about the wigs.

I’m like, Do they see the lace on the wigs?

Because I didnt see your lace on your wig.

She was like, Nobodys even going to care about that.

And [I was] able to touch base withSheryl Lee Ralph.

And she said, We are going to pack that auditorium.

I love that so much.

What other dream roles are on your list?

I would like to play Elphaba inWicked.

Id also love to do Dorothy inThe Wiz, and Miss Celie inThe Color Purple.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.