Ashlee Simpson-Wentz's Solid 'Chicago' Opening

Courtesy of INFDaily.com

Jessica Simpson teary at sis' knockout performance.

Ashlee Simpson-Wentz only had a few weeks to rehearse for her role as Roxy Carmichael for the Broadway production of Chicago, but she opened this week to overall favorable reviews and big-time applause from her family.

Sister Jessica Simpson -- back to looking bangin' after an out-of-the-spotlight spell -- was present for Ashlee's opening night and is said to have gotten "weepy" over seeing her little sis ruling a Broadway stage. Ashlee Simpson-Wentz was photographed leaving the Ambassador Theater after Monday night's performance with her husband Pete Went, both dressed in head-to-toe black and looking super-sharp as they waltzed past fans waiting for Ashlee outside. Then the Simpsons and Wentzes took off to posh Serafina restaurant to walk the red carpet and enjoy Ashlee's afterparty.

How did the family handle the nerves of their baby's Broadway debut? Tina Simpson (Ashlee and Jessica's mom) brought tissues, and Jessica apparently said repeatedly that seeing her sister looking so skinny made her want to work out. Ashlee's hubby Pete said he was a little drunk...classy.

Ashlee Simpson will star as Roxy Carmichael until February 7, 2010. Jessica Simpson thinks you should go see it, as she tweeted last night: "Roxie was all Heart! Watching her up on that grandiose stage made me the proudest sister in the world. I love ya honey, I love ya!"

The career turnaround is an improvement for Simpson-Wentz, who was booted off Melrose Place just weeks ago and who recently vowed to give up singing to spend time with her son Bronx...maybe not so much.