For my 40th birthday this year, my husband and I took a delightful trip to London with plans to see as many shows as possible. At the top of my list was Moulin Rouge the Musical, enticed by the incredible set pictures and glowing reviews I had encountered.
Moulin Rouge is currently lighting up the stage at the Piccadilly Theatre in London's West End. The show is based on Baz Luhrmann's 2001 movie musical, but features a different selection of songs. This jukebox musical masterfully mixes well-known classics with contemporary hits, boasting an impressive 75 songs, including Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance," Britney Spears' "Toxic," and Katy Perry's "Firework."
Set in 1899 Belle Époque Paris, Moulin Rouge tells the love story of Christian (Jamie Muscato), a young American composer, and Satine (Melissa James), a star performer at the Moulin Rouge. The club, teetering on the brink of bankruptcy, is run by Harold Zidler (Matt Rixon), who will do anything to save it. Zidler arranges for Satine to meet a wealthy Duke, hoping he will invest in the club. However, Satine mistakenly falls for Christian, thinking he is the Duke. When the real Duke meets Satine, he agrees to finance the Moulin Rouge, but demands Satine in return. Their love is further tested by a Bohemian revolution and a terminal illness.
The spectacle begins the moment you step into the auditorium, greeted by a giant elephant on the left and a windmill on the right. Red velvet drapes, chandeliers, and performers in cages and onstage set an immersive atmosphere, transporting you directly into the heart of the Moulin Rouge club.
Derek McLane's set design is outstanding, visually bringing each scene to life. Justin Townsend's lighting design complements the decadent set, enhancing the immersive experience. Catherine Zuber's costumes are a vibrant blend of colour, sexiness, elegance, and theatricality. Together with pyrotechnics, the set, lighting, and costumes create a breathtaking visual display
The cast delivered excellent performances, including understudies Craig Ryder (The Duke), Taofique Folarin (Santiago), Siobhan James (La Chocolat), and Melissa Nettleford (Arabia), who all shone in their roles. Jamie Muscato, as Christian, stood out with his charm, charisma, and exceptional voice, particularly during his rendition of "Roxanne." Melissa James as Satine impressed with her powerful vocals and chemistry with Muscato.
One of the highlights was the big dance numbers, brilliantly choreographed by Sonya Tayeh, showcasing a variety of dance styles. These numbers were visually stunning and performed by an exceptionally talented ensemble.
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Moulin Rouge is a high-energy, glamorous spectacle, featuring pyrotechnics, a decadent set, and amazing dance numbers. It offers a fun night out at the theatre, and is probably the most visually stunning production I've seen on the West End. While the story itself might feel a bit lacking, everything else about the show is fantastic. I would rate it a four-star experience.
Moulin Rouge is currently running at the Piccadilly Theatre in London's West End
you can find out more about the production and purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
Photo Credit - Johan Persson & Matt Crockett
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