On Monday, June 2, Broadway’s razzle-dazzle hit musical “Chicago” once again welcomed legendary actress and recording artist Carol Woods as Matron “Mama” Morton for a 13-week engagement through Sunday, August 31 at Broadway’s Ambassador Theatre (219 West 49th Street).

“Being back with my friends and family at ‘Chicago’ this summer is a joy,” says Woods, who has received critical acclaim on Broadway, the US National Tour, and in Tokyo, Japan for her performance as “Mama.” Embellishing her lyrics in the musical, Woods laughs, “Broadway audiences, and the ‘Chicago’ company have been good to Mama, and Mama’s gonna be good to them!”

In 2007, Carol Woods was lauded for her performance in Julie Taymor’s movie “Across the Universe,” singing a powerful gospel rendition of the Beatles’ classic “Let It Be.” Woods was honored to reprise her performance at the 2008 Grammy Awards in Los Angeles in connection with the soundtrack’s nomination. This year, Woods appears with the great Ruby Dee in the forthcoming feature film “Steam.”

Carol Woods’ Broadway performances include “Grind,” “The Full Monty,” “One Mo’ Time,” “Follies” and “Smokey Joe’s Cafe.” In London, Woods starred in “Blues in the Night” (earning an Olivier Award nomination) and at the Royal National Theatre as the title character in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.”

In 2007, Woods starred in the San Francisco revival of “Blues in the Night,” directed by original creator and director Sheldon Epps. For her performance, Woods received the Best Actress in a Musical award from the Bay Area Critics Circle.

Hwer motion picture credits include “Sweet and Lowdown,” “The Honeymooners” and “Stepping Out.” Her television appearances include a special episode of “The Practice,” created by David E. Kelley, “Third Watch,” “Law & Order” and a series regular spot on “The Parent Hood.”

This summer, Woods’ new CD, “Carol Woods Sings Blues in the Night,” co-produced by Ron Coleman, is being released.

“For years, fans and audiences have wanted a new recording of “Blues in the Night,” which features ‘Lover Man,’ ‘Wasted Life Blues,’ and other classics,” says Woods. “Recording the album was uplifting, and I’m excited that my new generation of fans will hear these classic songs.”

For more information on “Chicago,” the new CD, Carol Woods’ appearances, press ready photography and artwork, visit www.CarolWoodsOnline.com.

Broadway is shinning brighter these days now that Carol Woods has made her triumphant return to “Chicago.”