‘Moulin Rouge! The Musical’ is synonymous with the jukebox musical format – the show is a hugely successful theatrical experience which has captured hearts from Broadway, to West End, to our own backyard. But for all its grandiose and spectacular staging, something’s missing.
The production began the moment we set foot into Melbourne’s stunning Regent Theatre (24 August) – towering lights, the iconic red windmill and elephant. . . It was truly a marvel and one of the most gorgeous sets I’ve ever seen. As a side, the story of this show returning to Melbourne for what is being called its victory lap after a tour around the country in the COVID era is wonderful, and a testament to the power of theatre and its universal appeal.
The show began with the iconic ‘Lady Marmalade’ and nothing was held back the second the house lights went down, with performers flooding the stage in all corners wearing intricately detailed costumes that glimmered under the lights.
Unfortunately, this epic starting point played a role in how this reviewer perceived the rest of the show. After such an introduction, expectations were as high as the show’s glowing neon sign, and though my attention was held from start to finish, I couldn’t help but pine for something more.
The highlights musically were the songs from the original Baz Luhrmann film – ‘Lady Marmalade’ and ‘Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend’ in particular. . . And some of the newer numbers like ‘Bad Romance’ and ‘Shut Up And Dance’ were captivating. However, the composition and delivery of a few of the other tracks made it hard to determine how we, as an audience, were supposed to feel about their inclusion. Some of the tracks chosen for more somber moments in the plot, for example, lessened the emotion through how they were presented and performed.
Simon Burke - Image © Michelle Grace Hunder
Alinta Chidzey and Des Flanagan as Satine and Christian respectively, took on their roles with dazzling commitment – Alinta in particular creating a convincing air of longing and desire around her character which was enjoyable to watch throughout.
James Bryers was the perfect balance of seductive and conniving as The Duke, pulling everyone into his hazy mystique with ease.
It was Simon Burke, however, who stole the show as Harold Zidler, a camp caricature in the vein of Captain Jack Sparrow who always pulled the room’s attention toward him the second he appeared on stage. His energy was a perfect match for the incredible lights and props which surrounded him.
Spectacular, spectacular as it may be to look at, ‘Moulin Rouge! The Musical’ feels more shallow a show than it should. Gorgeous set design and costumes do wonders for the eyes, and the show features a catchy soundtrack of songs, some of which do sometimes feel a little out of place. For those after a fun night at the theatre with beautiful aesthetics and some toe-tapping tunes, this one’s for you.
★★★☆☆ 1/2.
