Theater Review: Moulin Rouge! The Musical was welcomed to Orlando with a standing ovation

Moulin Rouge! The Musical will make you want to sing and dance, all while telling a beautiful yet tragic story that truly makes you feel for the characters. If you’re a fan of musicals, music, or fun, Moulin Rouge The Musical, will be a great night out. 

The Tony Award-winning musical is based on the 2001 film written and directed by Baz Luhrmann and starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor; however, theatergoers do not need to see the movie to enjoy the musical (though, I highly recommend seeing both). In fact, after seeing the musical, I plan on dusting off my DVD and giving the movie a much overdue rewatch. 

The movie is based on the real Paris cabaret, which opened in 1889 as a place for all genders, all economic classes, artists, tourists, ordinary folk, and more to visit. Over the years it has changed a bit, and can still be visited today. 

Moulin Rouge! The Musical will make you want to sing along

If you have seen the movie, don’t expect the songs to be exactly the same. There will be moments when you suddenly picture Ewan McGregor singing (at least I did), but the music got a bit of an update for the stage production, so no matter what generation you’re from, you’ll have a hard time not singing along. If you’re completely unfamiliar with the movie or the musical, keep in mind the songs are much newer than the time period in which the story takes place. Not only will you hear songs from different decades, but often more than one song is synced perfectly to the current scene.

As soon as Moulin Rouge! The Musical begins, the famous song “Lady Marmalade” sets the tone for what is about to be a good time. The story may be tragic, but the show is still high-energy from beginning to end.

The dancers and singers (in gorgeous costumes) all contributed flawlessly to create a seamless show, and the sets and lighting were beautifully designed. There were also transitions and scenes where the lighting took the moment up a notch and created a sense of awe. 

This is a show you won’t want to miss

Broadway shows just seem to get better and better. While I still love seeing classics like Annie, there’s something incredibly fun about a show like Moulin Rouge coming to the stage. It was definitely a movie built for Broadway; however, this may be one you leave younger kids at home for. 

Moulin Rouge! The Musical will be at Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando through March 3, 2024. For more information and tickets click here.