Moulin Rouge! The Musical is a dazzling, romantic, and wildly entertaining Broadway show based on the 2001 Baz Luhrmann film of the same name. Set in the famed Montmartre district of Paris, this musical brings the decadent and electrifying world of the Moulin Rouge cabaret to life on stage, blending contemporary pop music with lush visuals and breathtaking choreography. Here’s your ultimate guide to everything you need to know about this smash-hit production:
Overview of Moulin Rouge! The Musical
- Location: The show takes place at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre, located at 302 West 45th Street, New York City.
- Run Time: The musical runs for 2 hours and 35 minutes, including one intermission.
- Genre: Jukebox musical, featuring a mix of modern pop songs, extravagant sets, and stunning dance numbers.
- Director: Alex Timbers, known for blending traditional and contemporary styles in musical theater.
- Music: The show features a vast medley of songs, from classics like Lady Marmalade to modern hits by artists like Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, and Adele. Over 70 songs are woven into the production, including Your Song, Come What May, Rolling in the Deep, and Chandelier.
- Choreography: Sonya Tayeh choreographed the high-energy and sensual dance sequences that give life to the Moulin Rouge, with a mix of can-can, modern dance, and jazz.
- Awards: The musical won 10 Tony Awards in 2021, including Best Musical, Best Direction, and Best Actor (Aaron Tveit as Christian).
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Moulin Rouge! The Musical Plot Summary
The story follows Christian, a young, idealistic songwriter who falls in love with Satine, a star performer at the Moulin Rouge cabaret in Paris. The plot mirrors the themes of the original film: love, passion, jealousy, and the tension between artistic freedom and commercial success. As Satine is pursued by both Christian and the wealthy Duke of Monroth, the stakes rise, leading to a dramatic and heart-wrenching climax.
At the heart of the musical is the romance between Christian and Satine, complicated by the financial struggles of the Moulin Rouge and the need to secure the club’s future. It’s a story of forbidden love, ambition, and the price of following one’s dreams.
Main Characters and Cast of Moulin Rouge! The Musical
- Christian: The young, hopeful writer who falls deeply in love with Satine. On Broadway, this role has been performed by Aaron Tveit, who won a Tony Award for his portrayal.
- Satine: The sparkling, talented, and conflicted star of the Moulin Rouge. Karen Olivo originally portrayed Satine on Broadway, capturing her vulnerability and strength.
- Harold Zidler: The charismatic and flamboyant owner of the Moulin Rouge, determined to keep the club alive at any cost.
- The Duke of Monroth: The wealthy aristocrat who wants Satine for himself and is willing to fund the Moulin Rouge in exchange for her loyalty.
- Toulouse-Lautrec: The bohemian artist and Christian’s close friend, who helps narrate the story and adds humor and heart to the production.
- Santiago: The passionate Argentinian performer at the Moulin Rouge, often involved in comedic moments and vibrant dance numbers.
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Music and Song Highlights of Moulin Rouge! The Musical
“Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is a jukebox musical, meaning it uses pre-existing songs that have been creatively re-arranged to fit the story. The soundtrack is a unique mix of genres, blending rock, pop, and iconic love ballads from different decades.
Some of the standout musical moments include:
- “Lady Marmalade”: A high-energy opening number that sets the tone for the extravagant and glamorous world of the Moulin Rouge.
- “Your Song”: Christian’s heartfelt declaration of love to Satine, originally by Elton John, one of the most romantic moments in the show.
- “El Tango de Roxanne”: A powerful and intense rendition of The Police’s Roxanne, transformed into a passionate tango.
- “Come What May”: The signature love song between Christian and Satine, originally featured in the film, marking the couple’s vow to stay together despite the obstacles they face.
The musical also incorporates newer hits like:
- “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele
- “Single Ladies” by Beyoncé
- “Firework” by Katy Perry
- “Chandelier” by Sia
- “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon
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Moulin Rouge! The Musical Visual and Design Elements
“Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is known for its spectacular visual design, which includes:
- Lavish Costumes: Designed by Catherine Zuber, the costumes are an essential part of the spectacle. Expect vibrant colors, extravagant feathers, and luxurious fabrics that reflect the opulence of the Moulin Rouge.
- Dazzling Set Design: The set, designed by Derek McLane, transports the audience into the heart of Paris and the Moulin Rouge. The theater itself is transformed with rich reds, sparkling chandeliers, and iconic elements like the windmill and the elephant, both crucial symbols from the film.
- Lighting Design: The lighting, designed by Justin Townsend, plays a key role in setting the mood, from the romantic glow of “Your Song” to the dramatic, fiery ambiance of “El Tango de Roxanne.”
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Best Time to See the Show
While “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is a spectacle at any time, for a special experience, consider seeing it:
- Evening Shows: The nighttime atmosphere enhances the mood of the show, making it feel even more like you’ve been transported to the real Moulin Rouge in Paris.
- Special Events: The cast often participates in special events like post-show talkbacks or holiday performances, which can make your experience even more memorable.
What to Expect
- Arrive Early: Doors open about 45 minutes before showtime, and there are often long lines due to the show’s popularity.
- Dress Code: While there’s no official dress code, many theatergoers like to dress up a bit, especially for a glamorous show like Moulin Rouge.
- Merchandise: There’s plenty of official merchandise available in the theater, including t-shirts, posters, and the official cast recording.
Why You Should See It
“Moulin Rouge! The Musical” on Broadway is a thrilling blend of romance, music, and spectacle. Whether you’re a fan of the original film or simply looking for a captivating night of theater, this show’s emotional depth, vibrant energy, and incredible music make it a must-see. It’s a feast for the senses, transporting you into the dazzling world of Parisian cabaret while offering a fresh, modern twist on beloved songs.
