Set against the glitz and grit of a struggling Los Angeles nightclub, Burlesque the Musical follows small-town girl Ali (Jess Folley) as she chases her dream to perform, only to stumble into a vibrant world of glitter, sass, and second chances. At the heart of it all is Tess (Orfeh), the club's fierce and fiery owner, fighting to save her beloved venue from closure with the help—and occasional hindrance—of a cast of unforgettable characters including charming bartender Jackson (Paul Jacob French), slick (but a bit monodimensional) businessman Vince (George Maguire), and the magnetic Sean (Todrick Hall).
Based on the cult 2010 film and brought to the stage by Executive Producer Christina Aguilera and original screenwriter Steven Antin, this new musical explodes with energy, heart, and show-stopping numbers. From the moment the curtain rises, Burlesque dazzles—and never lets up.
The songs are catchy, with a score that blends power ballads, electro-pop, and sultry jazz into an irresistible soundtrack. Numbers build into huge, theatrical crescendos complete with stunning choreography by the ensemble, thanks to the electric direction and movement crafted by the multi-talented Todrick Hall. The production knows exactly what it is—and it leans in. This is a show that doesn't take itself too seriously, and that's why it works so brilliantly. It's funny, flirty, and bursting with self-aware charm.
Jess Folley is an absolute revelation as Ali, delivering powerhouse vocals and just the right mix of naivety and grit. Orfeh brings star power and soul to Tess, while Todrick Hall commands the stage as Sean with effortless charisma. George Maguire is wonderfully slick as Vince, and Paul Jacob French is magnetic as Jackson. This cast know how to deliver.
Visually, Burlesque is a feast: Nate Bertone's sleek, transformable set brings the LA club scene to life, while Marco Marco's costumes—glamorous, cheeky, and inventive—set the tone. Roberto Surace's additional costume designs and Rory Beaton's dynamic lighting design elevate every scene to visual perfection.
It's rare to find a show that manages to be both a full-throttle spectacle and a genuinely feel-good experience, but Burlesque hits that sweet spot. You'll laugh, cheer, and leave the theatre wanting to do high kicks in sequins. It's bold, it's brash, and it's completely irresistible.
An absolute must-see show of the summer.
It runs until 6 September. Tickets: here.
Photo: Pamela Raith