Moulin Rouge! The Musical has lit up the West End since 2021, and with a new cast, it still feels fresh. From the moment the curtains lifted, the energy in the Piccadilly Theatre buzzed as if it were opening night.
The story follows Christian (Alistair Brammer), a wide-eyed writer who arrives in Paris seeking inspiration, and finds it in Satine (Karis Anderson), the sparkling star of the Moulin Rouge. Guided by club owner Harold Zidler (Craig Ryder), Christian becomes entangled in a love story as intoxicating as it is dangerous, while the Duke (Ben Richards) lurks, ready to claim Satine for himself.
Act 1 is a whirlwind of colour and pop mash-ups, setting a fast-paced tone, while Act 2 slows to deepen emotion with solos and storytelling. Remarkably, the 2-hour 45-minute runtime never drags, keeping audiences engaged until the heartbreaking finale.
The cast shines. Brammer's Christian captures sincerity and desperation, particularly in “El Tango de Roxanne,” one of the night's electrifying moments. Anderson's Satine is vocally and emotionally powerful, with “Firework” highlighting her range and control. Together, they share genuine chemistry, making the romance tender and tragic.
Ryder as Zidler commands the stage with humour and flair, while Richard Lloyd King (Toulouse-Lautrec) and Ivan De Freitas (Santiago) offer grounded, moving performances. Richards as the Duke balances menace with complexity without tipping into caricature.
Musically, the show dazzles - breathing new life into familiar pop songs. However, a few song choices veer toward panto camp - a deliberate stylistic choice that may divide audiences.
Visually, the production is spectacular and translates the story beautifully to the stage. From the gritty Paris underworld to the golden decadence inside Satine's elephant dressing room, each transition is seamless and magical. Derek McLane's scenic design immerses you in a world of crimson and gold, with lavish detail that makes the entire theatre feel alive. The Moulin Rouge interior dazzles in reds and golds, while lighting, costumes, and design create an immersive, ever-shifting world around the performers. Audience reactions were enthusiastic, with cheers throughout.
Overall, Moulin Rouge! The Musical remains a high-voltage, spectacular theatre experience. Renewed with a fresh cast, it's perfect for fans of jukebox musicals like Mamma Mia or & Juliet, lovers of escapist glamour, or anyone seeking bold, colourful, heartfelt, and thrilling entertainment.
The show is currently booking through May 2026. Get your tickets from £25: here.
Review: Alistair Lowe Photo: Mark Senior