Moulin Rouge @ Wharton Center

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“Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is a dazzling spectacle that brings Baz Luhrmann’s iconic 2001 film to the Broadway stage with a flourish of romance, drama, and a jukebox of hits from various artists. Set in the Montmartre Quarter of Paris, France, during the Belle Epoque at the turn of the 20th century, the story revolves around Christian, a young composer, and his tumultuous love affair with Satine, the star performer of the Moulin Rouge.

The narrative delves into the struggles of the Moulin Rouge, which faces financial ruin. Harold Zidler, the club’s owner, desperately tries to save the establishment by involving Satine with The Duke, a wealthy man looking to own her. This arrangement complicates Satine’s relationship with Christian, posing a significant obstacle to their love. Amidst the backdrop of a bankrupt nightclub, the story explores the tensions of love, desire, and artistic integrity, highlighting the Bohemian ideals of “truth”, “beauty”, “freedom”, and “love”.

The musical showcases a pop score that includes music from various artists, encompassing a range from The Rolling Stones to Beyoncé to David Bowie. The stage adaptation retains the film’s popular songs while also incorporating contemporary hits. The production features a book by John Logan and integrates over 160 years of music, from Offenbach to Lady Gaga.

Originally premiered in Boston in 2018, the show made its Broadway debut in 2019 at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre. Its enchanting blend of spectacle, romance, and eye-popping excess has earned it significant acclaim, including 10 Tony Awards.