Better Than The Original? We Review Moulin Rouge! The Musical

I love musicals.

Whether it’s a movie or the theatre - you name it - I’ve seen it. From the old-school like Chicago and The Phantom of the Opera to modern classics (we all know Hamilton), I’m obsessed. But for some reason, Moulin Rouge! didn’t do it for me as a film... even with Baz Luhrmann at the helm.

Maybe it’s because I prefer Nicole Kidman in a murderous Californian drama and Ewan Macgregor wielding a lightsaber, or perhaps it was the jukebox-style score coupled with chaotic cinematography. But, 23 years on, could the West End production of Moulin Rouge! The Musical change my mind?

Moulin Rouge! The Musical has been attracting audiences to London's Piccadilly Theatre since 2021.

DesignMyNight Reviews Moulin Rouge! The Musical London

Arriving at the heaving heart of Soho, you can’t miss the Piccadilly Theatre - with its twinkling lights and huge Moulin Rouge! sign taking centre stage on the corner where Sherwood Street meets Denman Street. Once inside, the stage itself is also something to behold; an incredible set flooded with bright red decorations and love heart arches reminiscent of the movie's 'show within a show'. This might be one of the most ornate designs I’ve seen yet.

The performance starts before the curtain lifts, with showgirls and bohemians slowly making their way around the stage while the audience find their seats. Armed with a couple of themed cocktails (the list includes a Champagne-tipped Sparkling Diamond and the fruity Parisian Passion), we made our way to our place in the stalls before the action began.

Grab a drink and watch as the set transforms into Parisian scenes.

If you’ve seen the 2001 film, you’ll be familiar with the love story of courtesan Satine and writer Christian at the famous French cabaret, along with a soundtrack that spans Elton John, Madonna and Nirvana - just to name a few. However, I felt the casting, choreography and performances elevated each scene to new heights on stage. Watching Satine (played by the incredible Tanisha Spring) descend from a swing as she sang Rihanna’s Diamonds, gave me chills. Not only because of her powerful voice, but also in seeing a black lead take on such a treasured character.

I’d be lying if I said that I enjoyed every song – Katy Perry, what are you doing here? – but with an energetic opening to the iconic Lady Marmalade, can-can dancers of various genders, and a sexy tango to Roxanne by The Police (pictured below), the production did a fantastic job capturing the crowd’s attention. Die-hard fans of the original might not love this updated score, but I felt some of the additions worked well on stage. Together with inclusive casting (even going beyond race and LGBTQI+ representation, all the way to a sign language interpreter) and a glittering set design, it’s clear to see why there wasn’t an empty seat in the audience.

The talented Moulin Rouge! London cast perform to a jukebox-style soundtrack, with impressive choreography.

Moulin Rouge! Theatre Review: Overall

Did the Moulin Rouge! London theatre show live up to the hype? Absolutely. Whether you know the original off by heart or are new to the plot entirely, the impressive stage production, glitzy costumes and dazzling musical numbers come together for an experience that feels right at home in Soho. Since experiencing this show in the theatre, I thought I’d give the movie another chance. And I’m sorry to all the Baz Luhrmann fans out there (I loved Romeo + Juliet, I promise) but there’s just something about seeing this performance on stage that you cannot beat.

Discover more of the best musicals in London, and while you're at it, sign up to our newsletter for all the latest.