hellomagazine.com

USHER HITS A HIGH NOTE AS 'CHICAGO' DEBUT NEARS

SEND TO A FRIEND

16 AUGUST 2006

The all-singing, all-dancing role of Billy Flynn in Chicago would present quite a challenge for most budding actors. R&B star Usher, who is already well-known for both his vocal skills and fancy footwork, seemed to be taking everything in his stride as he took part in rehearsals this week, though.

If the grin on his face on Tuesday afternoon was anything to go by, the Dallas-born singer wasn't feeling too nervous about making his Broadway debut next week. Indeed the 27-year-old seemed to be thoroughly enjoying himself as a troupe of shapely dancers surrounded him with dazzling white plumes.

Usher is best know for chart-topping hits like Yeah! and Burn, but he's also made some forays into acting with shows like Sabrina The Teenage Witch and The Bold And The Beautiful. Taking on the male lead in Chicago is by far his biggest acting job to date, though, and he's hoping to match the success of Richard Gere, who picked up a slew of awards after starring in the movie version four years ago.

"This is a very exciting time in my career," said the performer. "I have always admired Broadway actors for their showmanship, dedication and the focus that goes into performing live onstage every night. When they asked me to play Billy Flynn, I jumped at the chance to be a part of such an amazing production."