"Those familiar with the 2002 movie version will find a striking resemblance, both in looks and talent, between Catherine Zeta-Jones, who played the leading role of Velma in the motion picture, and Maria Leto who re-creates the role for Centre for the Arts. Leto's Velma is smart, sassy and drop-dead gorgeous. Her effervescent smile lights up the small theater."

 

 

"Stealing the show is Maria Leto, who plays Velma Kelly. The character of Kelly is a major protagonist, and a criminal striving for attention in the big city, by any means possible. Leto easily handles the challenges that playing a central character can bring, and in addition to her exceptional acting, her involvement in eight of the nineteen songs, show the vocal talent that she possesses.

    

Chicago is Leto's first Centre for the Arts performance, and with the warm response she received from the crowd it's sure not to be her last. Leto is a senior musical theatre major at Syracuse University.

    

In the past, she has held major roles in acts including West Side Story, A Chorus Line, and Godspell.

    

Leto's stellar performance, matched with Broadway-caliber acting by the remaining three staring characters make for a superb version of the hit classic story."

 

 

"Maria superbly plays Velma Kelly." Bucks County Herald