Missouri State University theatre and dance alumna Claire Marshall has landed a starring role in the 2025-26 national tour of “Chicago.”

Marshall, who graduated with a BFA in musical theatre in 2024, plays Velma Kelly.

“I’ve always wanted to be in ‘Chicago,’” she said. “Truthfully, I did not think the opportunity would come this soon in my life.”

Marshall auditioned for the role while still touring with “The Cher Show,” which ran in 2024-25. For the “Chicago” audition, Marshall first sent in a self-filmed tape and then completed a second audition in person when she moved to New York City.

The “Chicago” tour opened Oct. 22 at the 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle, Washington. The hit musical, set in 1920s Chicago, tells the story of Roxie Hart, a nightclub dancer who murders her lover when he threatens to leave her. Hart and her cellmate, Velma Kelly, try to avoid conviction by hiring a slick criminal lawyer.

See Claire Marshall in “Chicago”

Glamourous role built on hard work

Behind all the glamour of show business is a lot of hard work. “Chicago” is a physically demanding show, Marshall said, and rehearsals were especially grueling.

“The rehearsal process is, in my opinion, one of the hardest portions of a long contract,” she said. “We are working more than we ever do on show days, plus learning a large amount of material in two weeks is daunting.”

Marshall added that during these times “it’s imperative to listen to your body.” Plenty of rest, hydration and good nutrition are essential.

Professional skills honed at Missouri State

Marshall credits many people for her rapid success, but she sets aside special praise for her experiences at Missouri State.

“My time at MSU was essential for me to become the professional I am now,” she said. The experience provided her with “countless opportunities, challenges and support as I grew from an unfocused yet determined 18 year old to a passionate and versatile human and performer.”

Marshall said that while she valued her coursework at Missouri State, she valued even more the practical experience her education provided her.

“I think I learned the most from the practical application of being in projects like musicals, plays and dance concerts,” she explained. “I had the privilege to be part of many productions on and off campus.”

She cited as especially significant examples her work in “Ordinary Days” in 2021 and “9 to 5” in 2023, as well as her appearance in the Tent Theatre production of “Anything Goes,” also in 2023.

“What made these stand out to me was the level of professionalism throughout the rehearsal process and the direct growth in myself that followed,” she said.

Faculty provide real-life advice and opportunities

Marshall singled out Heather Luellen, staff music director and accompanist for the Department of Theatre and Dance, as an important mentor. Along with former theatre and dance instructor Sarah Wilcoxon, Luellen challenged Marshall to be the best performer that she could be.

“[They] invested so much of their time, resources and passion to support me and my future endeavors,” Marshall said, adding that she was “forever grateful” for their encouragement.

Marshall crafted that advice into continued success. For example, her work in “9 to 5,” prepared Marshall for her role in “The Cher Show.”

“And without my first tour — ‘The Cher Show’ — I certainly would not have been considered to lead this one [“Chicago”],” she added.

Marshall said Missouri State’s theatre and dance faculty didn’t just teach techniques such as acting, dance and voice.

“[They] provided us students with real-life advice, opportunities and connections.”