Fox Theatre, Atlanta, GA.
April 21, 2023.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical has made its method to Atlanta’s Fox Theatre. Winner of 10 Tony Awards, together with Best 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. While I’ve loved many exhibits 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 coming into the theater, we have been met with probably the most sensible set I’ve ever seen. The lights coming from the stage almost lit up the complete room – and the present had not even begun! To the left was the enduring Moulin Rouge windmill and to the best was a large blue elephant – consultant of Satine’s dressing room. Centerstage shone a large neon “Moulin Rouge” signal. Truly, it appeared as if we have been already contained in the glamourous cabaret membership. The present started at 8pm, however about quarter-hour prior, a few of the forged started wandering onstage – absolutely 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 placing readability and emotion – I may have listened for hours! Cardoza originated the function of Young Noah within the musical adaptation of The Notebook 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 keenness. Her means to painting Satine’s wide selection of feelings all whereas carrying songs with excellent precision was spectacular. Reed is greatest identified for originating the function of Princess Jasmine in Disney’s Aladdin – a job for which she obtained a Grammy nomination. The alternative to see her reside was one I gained’t overlook.
As within the movie, Moulin Rouge! The Musical celebrates over 160 years of music – from Offenbach to Lady Gaga. The stage musical options most of the iconic songs from the film, and in addition contains latest hits launched for the reason that film premiered 21 years in the past. As a musical lover, I’m unsure I’d ever seen a present so vibrant and daring in its dance numbers. Moulin Rouge! The Musical was choreographed by Sonya Tayeh, who gained 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 big stage. The opening scene and encore have been particular crowd pleasers full with the enduring “Cancan” line in every. Other standouts included “El Tango de Roxanne” and “Backstage Romance,” which featured Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance.” Each 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 many years 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 just a few 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 keep 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 by means of April 30. Don’t miss your probability to see this Tony Award-winning spectacular!
Visit moulinrougemusical.com to be taught extra.
By Melody McTier of Dance Informa.
