Being in a long-running hit Broadway musical is enough to make a performer grateful for their blessings. But making history, while doing it, is the ultimate prize. Ask the sultry actress/singer Brenda Braxton, who has been shaking up the scene in 'Chicago' for more than 1200 performances. As merry murderess Velma Kelly, the 52-year-old beauty has played the role of Velma on Broadway more than any other actress. "Velma is truly one of the best characters on Broadway and it's a thrill to be returning to a role that has become so near and dear to me," Braxton told BlackVoices.com yesterday just hours before she returned to the show for her eighth stint.

She first joined the Kander & Ebb/Bob Fosse Tony Award winning revival in 2003, after winning raves in shows such as 'Smokey Joe's Cafe,' 'Jelly's Last Jam,' 'Cats,' 'Legs Diamond' and the original production of 'Dreamgirls.' 'Chicago' is not only an amazing show, but it's also a well-oiled machine," she continued. "Even after 12 years on Broadway, it's as vibrant and alive as ever. It's incredible to see that audiences are still packing themselves into that theatre, night after night."



The show has been up and running since Nov. 1996. And with a hit parade of major celebrities who have stepped in various roles, it has remained one of Broadway's best-selling shows. "As we're nearing our milestone 5,000th performance on Broadway this November, it's amazing to think that Brenda has been our Velma for more than 1,200 of them," 'Chicago' producer Barry Weissler lauded. "That's quite a remarkable accomplishment." "Without a doubt, Brenda is one of the most dynamic Velma's we've ever had in our company," he continued.