아이비, 브로드웨이 ‘시카고’ 성공적 데뷔…록시 하트로 첫 무대

Emerging singer and Broadway performer Ivy made her successful debut on the American stage, appearing in the musical "Chicago" at the Ambassador Theatre in New York on July 17th. The show's producers, Shin Comedy Company, announced on July 19th that Ivy delivered a full two-hour and thirty-minute performance, singing, speaking English, and executing a powerful dance routine. According to Shin Comedy, the audience erupted in applause upon Ivy's entrance and again during the curtain call, showing their appreciation.

Ivy's opportunity to grace Broadway came after approximately a year of auditions. She underwent three rounds of video auditions, focusing particularly on her English diction, pronunciation, and accent. In a June press conference, Ivy stated that her success lies in delivering her lines and songs so that the audience understands them clearly and the message of the work is communicated effectively.

"Chicago" holds a special place in Ivy's career. She first took on the role of Roxie Hart in a Korean production in 2012 and participated in six seasons until 2024, performing in a total of 592 shows. After ten years of performing the Korean-language role, Ivy returned to her roots by mastering English for this Broadway debut. Ivy expressed, "My musical journey owes a great deal to Roxie Hart."

"The Chicago" play, first staged in 1975, satirized the 1920s Chicago murder case, the sensationalist press, and the public's appetite for crime stories. It returned to Broadway in 1996 and celebrated its 30th anniversary this year, having been performed over 12,000 times. The Ambassador Theatre, where Ivy took the stage, has been a dedicated venue for "Chicago" productions since 2003.

Following the performance, fellow Broadway actor Michael Lee commented, "There has never been a day in Korean musical history as commendable and commemorative." Lee's producer, Barry Weisler, added, "Ivy's passion and dedication moved everyone involved in the production." Ivy concluded her remarks by expressing her heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made her debut possible.

Ivy's Broadway "Chicago" engagement will continue until June 6th of the following year. After wrapping up on Broadway, Ivy will join the Korean "Chicago" production at the EL Gig Art Center Seoul on December 5th.