The spectacular spectacular musical based on Baz Luhrmann’s cult-classic film Moulin Rouge! is back on tour and has arrived in full splendor at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts! While this version features a slightly stripped-down set (the iconic windmill and elephant that once flanked the stage are no more), the dazzle and perfected chaos of the story of a bohemian in love with a courtesan in Paris still explodes to wondrous life.
The magic begins the moment the lights dim, and what truly lifts this show up where it belongs is the lead cast. Adrianna Rosario and Jay Armstrong Johnson leap into the roles of Satine and Christian with remarkable chemistry and vocal perfection. Their voices soar—sometimes tender, sometimes electric—sending delighted chills through the audience.
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Robert Petkoff’s Harold Zidler is a mischievous hoot, a ringmaster of decadence and delight. Andrew Brewer smolders as the sexy, haughty Duke of Monroth, while Jahi Kearse’s Toulouse-Lautrec grounds the story with quiet depth and loyalty. Then there’s Danny Burgos as Santiago; wildly sensual, full of fire and movement, he’s an undeniable show highlight every time he hits the stage.
Under Alex Timbers’ direction, with choreography by So You Think You Can Dance alum Sonya Tayeh and musical arrangements by Justin Levine, Moulin Rouge! becomes a cannonball confetti of pop brilliance. The mash-up of hits from P!nk, Katy Perry, David Bowie, Sia, Beyoncé, and countless others is pure ear candy.
Though the musical streamlines Luhrmann’s original story into a more focused stage progression, all the key moments remain: the iconic “Lady Marmalade,” the sweeping “Elephant Love Medley” (now with a few fresh additions), and of course the devastatingly romantic “Come What May.” Fan favorite “El Tango de Roxanne” still burns the stage with its emotional intensity as Christian sings his heart out in jealousy and heartbreak.
For fans of the film, there’s plenty new to savor, even if you’ve seen it a hundred times. For pop-song lovers, this is a two-and-a-half-hour explosion of melody and spectacle. And for musical theatre devotees who might turn up their noses at the term “jukebox musical,” rest assured — this is a fantastically staged, balls-to-the-wall production that delivers both emotion and exhilaration in spades.
So raise your glass and hang from the chandelier, because Moulin Rouge! is a must-see if you Can Can Can!
