Usher out of Chicago

By Amy Somensky Oct 13, 2006, 2:56 GMT

New York: Grammy winner, Usher, has not performed in Chicago since October 6th, and now comes word that he will be unable to finish his engagement with the musical due to a strep throat infection.

Jonnetta Patton, Usher's manager, said in a statement, "Usher is currently being treated for an extreme case of strep throat. He fell ill last Friday and his condition became progressively worse, so under strict orders from his doctors, Usher has been instructed not to perform. He is really saddened that he cannot close out his last week in Chicago with a bang. Usher has had an amazing time on Broadway and loved every minute of performing on stage with the entire cast of Chicago. He expresses his sincere apologies to all of his fans who purchased tickets to see him in Chicago this final week and appreciate all of their love and support. He is thankful to the producers, the entire cast and production crew of Chicago."

Usher was set to star in the musical through October 14th.

Usher's last album Confessions sold over 15 million albums. His film credits include She's All That, The Faculty, Light it Up, Geppetto, Texas Rangers, and In the Mix.

Chicago currently stars Bianca Marroquin, Brenda Braxton, Rob Bartlett, Roz Ryan and R. Lowe.

Murder, greed, corruption, violence, exploitation, adultery and treachery - that is Chicago, the kiss-and-tell tale of Roxie Hart, a chorus girl who kills her lover as a career move; Billy Flynn, a sharp lawyer who turns Roxie into a celebrity; and Velma Kelly, a dancing jailbird with an ear for headlines and an eye for talent.
 
For Chicago tickets visit www.ticketsnow.com.