In preparation for the Broadway musical "CHICAGO," the Takarazuka Revue's 100th anniversary OG version, a special event to further enhance the enjoyment of the work is being held until September 23rd at the West Park on the 4th floor of the Isetan Shinjuku Main Building. On the 18th, a talk show was held featuring former Takarazuka top stars Wataru Kozuki and Kei Takashiro. The talk show was open only to winners of a lottery that began at 10:00 AM that day. The event was hosted by fashion journalist Yoshiko Ikoma. In the production, Wataru Kozuki plays Velma Kelly, and Kei Takashiro plays Roxie Hart. Rehearsals have already begun, and both actors agree that "CHICAGO" is truly a special production. To faithfully reflect the worldview of choreographer Bob Fosse, all rehearsal uniforms are black. The OG version also features a cast that includes both senior and junior actors. While Takarazuka often has a particularly strict hierarchy, Takashiro said, "The members who gathered this time are very special, and there's a sense of unity that's unique to the production of 'Chicago,' creating a family-like atmosphere that's really fun." Kozuki added, "I think the unique Takarazuka spirit of moving forward in unison without letting anyone fall behind is also very evident on this set."

In the event space, actual stage costumes were on display, and outfits selected by Kozuki and Takashiro for "Chicago" performances, along with matching accessories, were on sale. Both appeared at the talk show wearing items selected from this collection. Kozuki wore a three-way dress from ANTEPRIMA, while Takashiro wore a collared dress from EPOCA. They accented the outfits with red rose accessories, created using a 3D printer specifically for this project. A vibrant audience is sure to liven up the performance, Takashiro said, "I selected some cute Roxy-style items," while Kozuki commented, "I chose a wide range of items, from mannish pieces to match the stage to comfortable dresses I could wear even after eating before the show."

When asked about the event at Isetan, both said it's a place they often visit in their private time. "I like the fact that I can always find what I'm looking for and don't have to walk around. Sometimes I come to Shinjuku and only stop by Isetan. I usually come here to look for work clothes, but I end up buying personal items as well," Takashiro said. Kozuki also commented, "It feels strange to be participating in an event at Isetan, a store I frequent often."

Regarding their fall style, "Since black is the trend this fall, I bought accent pieces like the boots I wore today (black and red with rhinestone heels) and orange bag. "In keeping with the world of 'Chicago,' I think it's good to add a touch of color or sparkle to a black outfit," Kozuki said. "I don't have any pencil skirts or midi-length skirts, which are popular this fall, so I'd love to try them," said Takashiro. During his time at Takarazuka, he often wore pants in his private life as a top male star, but since leaving the company, he's been trying to wear more skirts to revamp his image. "Chicago" is the world's first all-female cast, and has attracted attention from Broadway. At the end of the talk, when asked about the highlights of "Chicago," Kozuki said, "The Fosse style is extremely difficult for women to perform alone. Therefore, there's something that can only be created by women. That's the highlight, and I hope everyone will enjoy the atmosphere." Takashiro concluded, "Takarazuka has performed Broadway productions many times before, but this time it really feels like Takarazuka is diving into the world of Broadway." The Takarazuka Revue's 100th anniversary commemorative OG version of the Broadway musical "CHICAGO" will be performed at Tokyo International Forum C from November 1st to 9th, and will return to Tokyo from December 10th to 19th at the same venue. Performances will also be held in Osaka and Aichi. During the event, Le Salon Jacques Borie on the fourth floor of the main building will offer a special "Chicago"-inspired cake (3,000 yen with a drink), which was unveiled at the talk show. The plate featured fondant au chocolat, raspberry sorbet, raspberry sauce, and lemon confit. The two were impressed by the color scheme, commenting, "It really reflects the world of Chicago." Because it's a secret menu item, it's not listed on the menu. When ordering, simply ask for the "Chicago cake set," and the cake will be brought to you on a cart. After the talk show, Kozuki and Takashiro actually tried the cake, calling it "exquisite" and quickly finishing it all. "I hope everyone will enjoy the fondant while it's still hot and freshly baked," they said.

At the end of the talk show, the two signed an autograph on the "Chicago" backboard that was on display at the event venue, which delighted the fans who had come to see them, and many were seen taking photos after the talk show ended.