Denise van Outen’s return to Chicago postponed due to prior injury

Updated on 20 February 2019

An unexpected injury prior to rehearsals has forced Denise van Outen to pull out from the West End production of Chicago. The Essex-born actress, who played Roxie Hart in the 2001 West End production, was originally scheduled to return to the show as Velma Kelly from 24 September to 17 November.

On the first day of rehearsals, it was discovered that Denise van Outen had suffered a stress fracture in her heel, a small crack or bruise within the bone that is highly prevalent amongst athletes, runners and dancers. Denise will be postponing her return to Chicago with specific dates to be announced later.

The news comes with great regret as many fans were looking forward to seeing van Outen grace the stage in Chicago once more. The production team are currently scouting for a replacement for Velma Kelly, to be announced soon.


Chicago is now playing at the Phoenix Theatre and booking until 5 January 2018.

Purchase your Chicago London tickets.

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Nicholas Ephram Ryan Daniels

By Nicholas Ephram Ryan Daniels

Ephram is a jack of all trades and enjoys attending theatre, classical music concerts and the opera.