Jenna Johnson is ready to trade the ballroom for Broadway. The Dancing with the Stars pro wants to join Chicago. She has her sights set on one of the musical’s leading roles. Johnson is considering both Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly.
Jenna Johnson is eyeing Roxie Hart or Velma Kelly in Broadway’s Chicago
Johnson recently revealed her Broadway ambitions while visiting New York City. She said she would “love to do Chicago” and play Roxie Hart. The role follows a fame-hungry woman who becomes a celebrity after murder. Johnson said she would move to New York for the opportunity.
“I would love to do Chicago. I would love to be Roxie Hart,” Johnson told PEOPLE. “Can we just put that into the universe?” She added that she would “work my little booty off,” for the dream role.
However, Johnson’s fans quickly suggested another character. Many encouraged the dancer to consider Velma Kelly instead. Velma serves as Roxie’s rival throughout the long-running musical. Johnson admitted she was now open to taking either part.
“I was walking around yesterday, and I was like, ‘I’m just going to put it out there,’” she said. “But then everyone was like, ‘No, you should be Velma.’ So, let me know.”
Johnson’s Dancing With the Stars partner Harry Shum Jr. already supports the idea. He offered to help Johnson develop her action skills for Broadway. Shum suggested they could “trade skill sets” while preparing together.
Johnson would not be the first DWTS star to enter Chicago. Whitney Leavitt recently made her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart. Mark Ballas later joined her as Billy Flynn for a limited run.
The musical could suit Johnson’s extensive dance background. Velma’s role requires substantial musical theater and dance experience. Chicago celebrates the 30th anniversary of its current Broadway revival this fall.
For now, Johnson remains focused on Dancing with the Stars season 35. She and Shum will complete it together during the upcoming season. The two-night premiere begins September 15 and continues September 16.
Originally reported by Saumya Srivastava on Reality Tea
