Review: MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL at Van Wezel

Indulge your senses, for to merely label “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” as a mere Broadway success is an egregious understatement of this unparalleled masterpiece. Allow me to regale you with the sumptuous details of its grandeur - during its Broadway premiere in 2019 at the illustrious Al Hirschfeld Theatre, this divine creation was bestowed with 14 Tony nominations and gracefully claimed 10 coveted awards, emerging as the undisputed belle of the ball with accolades such as Best Musical, Choreography, Scenic, and Costume Design. Imagine, if you will, the enchanting spectacle unfolding not just in the shimmering lights of Broadway, but across the globe - from the Regent Theatre in Melbourne, Australia to the esteemed Piccadilly Theatre in London.

And as if that weren't enough, a majestic world tour of this unparalleled production is currently being meticulously crafted to sweep audiences off their feet in every corner of the earth. Oh, what a feast for the senses, what a marvel to behold! Your journey into the enchanting realm of Moulin Rouge has only just begun! Let the magic of this extraordinary phenomenon engulf you in its splendor and transport you to a world where dreams and reality intertwine in a symphony of unmatched brilliance right in your hometown of Sarasota!

Set in the heart of Paris, during the glamorous era of the Belle Époque, our story unfolds. It revolves around a talented young composer who finds himself captivated by the enchanting star of the iconic Moulin Rouge. As melodies intertwine with emotions, a spectacular production emerges, blending beloved tunes and soul-stirring original compositions, mixed up with dancing and an ever changing set. Yet, amidst the resplendent lights and jubilant crowds, the stage is set for a grand opera of emotions, where love and loss dance a tragic waltz under the shimmering Parisian moonlight.

Harold Zidler, portrayed with a boisterous voice by the talented Robert Petkoff, gracefully guides us through the grandeur of the Moulin Rouge, showcasing both the magnificence of its facade and the intricacies of its inner workings. As he grapples with the challenges of ensuring the show's success, the weight of the entire production rests upon his shoulders. Petkoff's delivery of Zidler's announcements is laced with a hint of irony, inviting us to both laugh and lament alongside his complex and tormented character. Despite his dark persona, there is a sense of empathy that we cannot help but feel towards him in the face of looming adversity.

Let us discuss the magnificent performance of the leads in this theatrical production. Christian, portrayed with grace by Jay Armstrong Johnson, initially emerged as a reserved figure, yet blossomed into a remarkable presence. The captivating "diamond" of the performance, Satine, brought to life by the talented Arianna Rosario, burst onto the scene with unparalleled energy and progressively demonstrated immense strength (even as her character faced challenges). Accompanying these stars are a plethora of supporting cast members who flit about, providing comic relief or serving as comforting companions. It is within the intimate exchanges among the ensemble where moments of genuine connection are forged, offering brief respites within the grand spectacle of the production.

It is an undeniable fact that "Moulin Rouge! The Musical" stands as a monumental achievement in the realm of theatrical excellence. Its accolade of 10 Tony Awards serves as a testament to its unparalleled brilliance, a recognition that it not only merited but perhaps deserved even more. Each and every aspect of this production exudes a magnificence that surpasses the norm, for in "Moulin Rouge," every scene unfolds as a grand finale unto itself. The opulence of the costumes, the captivating choreography, the infectious energy, and the resounding vocals combine to create a spectacle akin to a continuous display of fireworks on the Fourth of July.

As the curtains descend in between acts and is pulled back again, the stage metamorphoses into a new world, a feat achieved through the meticulous craftsmanship and ingenuity of the Production Team working diligently behind the scenes. While we, the spectators, are privy to only the spectacle presented before us, it is the unsung heroes backstage who truly deserve our admiration and applause for their ceaseless dedication to bringing this theatrical marvel to life.

To post a comment, you must register and login.