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For fans of the hit film "Tootsie," there's another rendition of the comedic story playing out on the live stage in Chicago.

Broadway in Chicago and Scott Sanders Productions are presenting "Tootsie," running through Oct. 14 at Cadillac Palace Theatre in Chicago. The production is now a musical and it's enjoying a pre-Broadway world premiere in Chicago. "Tootsie" is currently in previews with its official opening scheduled for Sept. 30.

Santino Fontana, who stars as main character Michael Dorsey/Dorothy Michaels, said he was happy to be portraying this character that's a favorite of so many people. To be debuting the show in Chicago, he and other cast members said, is a great thing. Chicago, being such a strong theater town, has been the testing ground for various musicals and plays through the years.

"I've never been in the city (Chicago) for more than a few days," said Fontana, during a recent interview prior to the debut of the production. "It's fun to play this role," he said, adding that one of the appealing aspects of an actor's job is that one gets to bring diverse characters to life.

"I feel as an actor you're always avoiding an identity. But the great thing about being an actor is you get to live different lives that aren't your (own)," Fontana said.