The Burning Question: How Long Does Chicago REALLY Last at QPAC?
Ah, the age-old mystery that has baffled audiences for decades (well, maybe not decades, but at least since January 2024). Just how long does Chicago the Musical run at QPAC? Is it a quick dash through the roaring twenties, or a full-on marathon that'll have you wishing you brought a flask of speakeasy gin (not recommended, by the way).
Fear not, fellow theatergoer, for I, your trusty guide to the whimsical world of musical durations, am here to crack the case (or at least shed some light on the playbill).
Buckle Up, Buttercup: It's a Two-Act Affair (with Intermission!)
Here's the honest truth: Chicago the Musical clocks in at a solid 2 hours and 30 minutes, with a 20-minute intermission thrown in for good measure. That means you've got plenty of time to be dazzled by the killer dance numbers, tap your toes to the iconic soundtrack, and be thoroughly entertained by Roxie and Velma's shenanigans.
But wait, there's more!
How Long is Really Long Depends on You (and Maybe Your Hot Dog)
While 2 hours and 30 minutes is the official runtime, how long Chicago feels like it lasts depends entirely on you. Are you the kind of theatergoer who gets swept away by the story and forgets to check your watch? Then those two and a half hours will fly by in a blur of feathers, sequins, and sassy one-liners.
Or are you more of a * "need-a-hot-dog-and-stretch-my-legs-every-twenty-minutes" * kind of theatergoer? If so, factor in some intermission snacking and bathroom breaks, and that runtime might feel a tad longer.
Hey, no judgement here! After all, who can resist a good Chicago-style hot dog, especially during intermission? Just be sure to snag one before the second act starts, because you won't want to miss any of Velma's sharp wit or Roxie's showstopping moves.
So, How Long is the Verdict?
Chicago the Musical is a whirlwind trip through the world of jazz, murder, and vaudeville, all packed into a neat two-and-a-half-hour package. Whether it feels like a breeze or a marathon depends on your own personal theatergoing style.
But one thing's for sure: You'll be humming those Kander and Ebb tunes long after the curtain falls.
