Fox Theatre, Atlanta, GA. 
April 21, 2023. 

Moulin Rouge! The Musical has made its strategy to Atlanta’s Fox Theatre. Winner of 10 Tony Awards, together with Finest Musical, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is a spectacle to behold. Baz Luhrmann’s iconic movie involves life onstage, remixed in a brand new musical mash-up extravaganza. 

My husband and I attended Moulin Rouge! The Musical’s Friday night efficiency. Whereas I’ve loved many reveals at The Fox Theatre, my husband had by no means been earlier than. If ever there was a present to introduce him to the “fabulous Fox,” it was this one! Upon getting into the theater, we have been met with probably the most good set I’ve ever seen. The lights coming from the stage practically lit up the whole room – and the present had not even begun! To the left was the enduring Moulin Rouge windmill and to the fitting was a large blue elephant – consultant of Satine’s dressing room. Centerstage shone a large neon “Moulin Rouge” signal. Really, it appeared as if we have been already contained in the glamourous cabaret membership. The present started at 8pm, however about quarter-hour prior, among the forged started wandering onstage – totally in character – setting the tone of the night. The anticipation within the viewers was palpable because the present started.

The story of Moulin Rouge! The Musical facilities on small-town poet Christian, who arrives in Paris, joins the Bohemians, and falls in love with Moulin Rouge’s diva Satine. John Cardoza starred as Christian. From Cardoza’s first entrance onstage, I used to be swept away by his wide-eyed optimism and embodiment of the hopeless romantic. Cardoza’s voice carried hanging readability and emotion – I may have listened for hours! Cardoza originated the function of Younger Noah within the musical adaptation of The Pocket book and is positively one to observe. Courtney Reed, within the function of Satine, was Moulin Rouge’s glowing diamond. Reed’s efficiency oozed spunk and fervour. Her capacity to painting Satine’s wide selection of feelings all whereas carrying songs with good precision was spectacular. Reed is greatest recognized for originating the function of Princess Jasmine in Disney’s Aladdin – a job for which she obtained a Grammy nomination. The chance to see her stay was one I received’t neglect.

As within the movie, Moulin Rouge! The Musical celebrates over 160 years of music – from Offenbach to Girl Gaga. The stage musical options most of the iconic songs from the film, and in addition consists of current hits launched because the film premiered 21 years in the past. As a musical lover, I’m unsure I’d ever seen a present so brilliant and daring in its dance numbers. Moulin Rouge! The Musical was choreographed by Sonya Tayeh, who received a Tony Award for her choreography. Tayeh’s choreography capitalized on the Moulin Rouge setting. The dancers’ actions have been concurrently sensual and showy – the precise traits you would count on attending a cabaret in Paris – all whereas making full use of the massive stage. The opening scene and encore have been particular crowd pleasers full with the enduring “Cancan” line in every. Different standouts included “El Tango de Roxanne” and “Backstage Romance,” which featured Girl Gaga’s “Unhealthy Romance.” Every quantity was passionate and showcased the excessive power of the present. 

From the second I entered the theater till the ultimate burst of confetti that fell after the encore, I used to be fully captivated by the magic of Moulin Rouge! The Musical. As a musician, I appreciated the tribute to a long time of songs. As a dancer, I used to be wowed by the eagerness and intricacies of the choreography. As a storyteller, I used to be struck as soon as once more by the influence of theater. For a couple of hours, the viewers put apart their variations and got here collectively, celebrating the beliefs of the Bohemians: fact, magnificence, freedom and – above all – love. Moulin Rouge! The Musical gave the viewers a feast for our senses whereas additionally serving to us bear in mind that the best factor we’ll ever be taught is to like and be beloved in return.  

Moulin Rouge! The Musical runs at Atlanta’s Fox Theater via April 30. Don’t miss your likelihood to see this Tony Award-winning spectacular!