Interview with Disney Channel star Veronica Dunne

Veronica Dunne is currently making her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in the Tony-winning production of Chicago, which celebrates its 20th Anniversary tonight at Broadway's Ambassador Theatre!

Best known for her Disney Channel role of Marisa Clark on K.C. Undercover, Miss Dunne began her acting career with regional stage credits including Chicago, Cinderella, Cabaret, Into The Woods and, more recently, The Black Suits.

We caught up with Veronica to find out how it feels to be the name on everybody's lips as Chicago turns 20:

Thomas Hayden Millward: How does it feel to be starring as Roxie Hart on Broadway, as the production celebrates its 20th milestone Anniversary?

Veronica Dunne: It is completely surreal, absolutely amazing and such an honor.

THM: You have previously appeared in a regional production of Chicago. Did this role feel like slipping on a well-worn hat again or does nothing prepare you for a Broadway debut?

VD: I think doing prior productions has definitely given me a solid foundation for my Broadway debut but truthfully nothing can fully prepare you for that first night. Starring on Broadway has always been my biggest dream and to accomplish it is unreal. It was an out of body experience.

THM: How much time did you have to rehearse with the cast before your first night and what were your main challenges during this period?

VD: I had three weeks of rehearsal alone, and then I only rehearsed with the full cast on the day of my opening. It was kind of crazy only having one day with everyone onstage.

THM: Oh my! I bet that was nerve-wracking! Now, you're best known for your TV role on Disney's "K.C. Undercover." Like so many former Disney stars who go onto re-invent themselves with much more adult personas, was taking on the sexually titillating role of Roxie Hart a conscious decision to try out more adult themes in your work?

VD: I don't think I consciously chose Roxie just to make a transition into adult roles, I think it was more of a natural transition in itself. The role is so incredible and has so many layers, choosing a role on Broadway was my main goal. Of course that being said it's a positive coincidence that people can now see me in a different light.

THM: And you certainly shine brightly as Roxie! Why do you personally believe that Chicago has stood the test of time and lasted for 20 years on Broadway?

VD: I think the show is timeless, every song is a showstopper and the simplicity of costumes and sets make it forever classic.

Chicago is booking through to 2 July 2017 at Broadway's Ambassador Theatre. Click HERE for tickets!