The world famous ‘Moulin Rogue’ musical has touched down in Manchester until October – giving all the glitz and glam in this heartfelt and meaningful love story.
Wow. That’s how this is starting. Wow. Wow. And wow one more time. I had the unbelievable pleasure of watching Moulin Rogue and still can’t quite comprehend the amazing show I was able to witness. It was absolutely stunning from start to finish. I know the name, but didn’t know what to expect or what it was about, and I think going into it with no expectations or understanding made me love it even more!
Your breath is taken straight away as soon as you walk into the auditorium. Dazzling red lights, sparkling glitter and just a sense of style and excitement. It had me right away.
The only thing I did know about Moulin, was that it is a jukebox musical. But I don’t think that phrase can harness the beast that this show really is. It’s a musical phenomenon with unholy mashups of pop classics throughout that were just insane! Every musical number popped. Bright colours and exceptional dancing filled the stage, and I must give a special nod to the opening of act 2 – The Lady Gaga ‘Bad Romance’ mashup was just 11/10 and worth the price of seats alone!
The precision of the musical numbers will carry the reputation of Moulin Rogue on their own as they as so specific and performed to such a flawless execution. Every single cast member involved is so exceptionally talented and it was a real honour to sit and watch them in full flow. And the singing! We have people on this stage singing better than the original artists who released some of the songs. I just can’t get over how good this was!
It was brought to my attention the morning after, while writing this review, that the leading man, Christian, was played by the walking cover Josh Rose. Rose is unbelievably talented. His performance had me from the first second – the travelling American finding his way. Rose’s voice, his mannerisms and his whole aura was simply breathtaking. I never thought anyone other than Adele would make me enjoy ‘Rolling in the deep’ but I’d happily add Rose to my Spotify playlist and listen to his rendition over, and over, and over. His entire process throughout this show was mesmerizing and it’s clear Rose was born to play this role – with him being the walking cover, I wonder how good the original casting of Christian is.
Then the ‘Shining Diamond’ – Satine, breathtaking. Played by Verity Thompson, this role requires so much depth. The glowing star who sees herself fading and battling against what she must choose, for the sake of her morals and more importantly, what she wants – and who she loves. Thompson was STELLAR! And I can’t imagine anyone else even attempting the role after seeing her. I always think there is room for improvement, but this is a scenario where I would say that she was perfect. Her voice was unbelievable – and I’ll say it; she sings Katy Perry’s ‘Firework’ better than Katy Perry does. The raw beauty of the performance and the depth within it… Just Bravo!
Cameron Blakely, Playing Harold – was so much fun! It seems like a very front showing part with a lot of underlying stories along with it, and Blakely has this down to a tee. The showman everybody loves with all the energy to join it. Cameron carries himself with so much passion that it is hard not to smile when he is doing what he does. Excellent showing.
Then, our comedic, yet extremely heart-warming duo. Toulouse-Lautrec (Kurt Kansley) and Santiago (Rodrigo Negrini). This two were ace! Negrini as his powerful tango dance full of love and passion, energy was bursting from him and it was matched by the proudness of Kansley, who also had a very warranted vulnerability and kindness to him. On top though, both provided a wonderful stab of humour which was just so enjoyable. Performances not to be missed.
If you were ever wondering what the perfect musical is, it’s this. It’s Moulin Rogue. And I implore anyone to not enjoy this show for absolutely everything that it is worth! Fortunately, this phenomenon is in the palace until October 4th – and tickets are available at: https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/moulin-rouge-the-musical/palace-theatre-manchester/
