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Chicago’s choice of Weaver isn’t the first time a production has picked a celebrity star. <\/p>\n
Earlier this year, rapper Megan Thee Stallion was cast as Zidler in Moulin Rouge!, becoming the first woman to play the role of the nightclub boss.<\/p>\n
Although she quit the show early<\/a>, her performance received strong reviews and boosted interest in the show, with fans reportedly travelling from across the US, external<\/span><\/a> to see her. <\/p>\n Six The Musical also booked Grammy-winning singer Abigail Barlow and content creator Dylan Mulvaney for a run of shows back in January. <\/p>\n “When a show starts to struggle a little bit more, they tend to use celebrity casting,” says Boucher. <\/p>\n “By being there, they’re actually keeping a lot of other people employed at the same time.”<\/p>\n Reece’s role has already attracted her fans to Broadway, with some like Samantha Milo waiting to meet her at the theatre’s stage door on her debut night. <\/p>\n “I do think there is some stunt casting involved, however she is a great addition regardless,” the 19-year-old tells Newsbeat. <\/p>\n “She earned her spot there, she has been dancing and performing her whole life, this was a big goal for her.”<\/p>\n “Having Reece step into the role helps new fans who may never have thought to go and see Chicago, find a way to enjoy the show.”<\/p>\n The production runs for six weeks until 18 October. <\/p>\n Additional reporting by Miya Chahal.<\/i><\/p>\n<\/div>\n