The touring production of Moulin Rouge! The Musical has transformed Calgary's Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium into a whirlwind of spectacle, delivering an experience that is as thrilling as a theme park ride. Playing until Sunday, this adaptation of Baz Luhrmann's iconic 2001 film is a lavish treat for both the eyes and ears, masterfully blending comedy, melodrama, and a heartfelt love story.
A Jukebox Spectacle of Love and Ambition
Inspired by Puccini's opera La Bohème, the musical tells the tragic tale of Satine, the star courtesan of the famed Parisian cabaret. Her world is upended when she mistakenly confuses Christian, a penniless American composer, with the wealthy and powerful Duke of Monroth. The cabaret's financial survival depends on the Duke's investment, while Christian's dreams hinge on Satine performing his songs. This love triangle forms the core of a narrative that is both exuberant and poignant.
The show launches with a spectacular song-and-dance number that introduces the vibrant cast of characters. Gabriela Carrillo, portraying Satine, shines in a solo that cleverly weaves snippets of classics like Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend and Material Girl to establish her materialistic worldview—a perspective destined to change.
Standout Performances and Musical Brilliance
The Broadway Across Canada cast is exceptional. Gabriela Carrillo's Satine is a force of nature, belting out demanding numbers with stunning power despite her character's battle with consumption. Opposite her, Ryan Vasquez delivers a heartfelt performance as Christian, treating his solos as intimate confessions that thrill the audience.
The score is a major highlight, being a jukebox compilation of well-known hits. Elton John's Your Song serves as a thematic anchor, evolving from a comedic moment to a beautifully poignant refrain. The sole original song, Come What May, sung by the leads in the second act, stands out powerfully amidst the familiar tunes.
Supporting roles are equally compelling. Kevyn Morrow, as Toulouse-Lautrec, delivers a touching rendition of Nature Boy, revealing a secret love for Satine. Andrew Brewer is perfectly cast as the devilishly handsome yet villainous Duke, while Bobby Daye brings depth and humor to the role of cabaret manager Harold Zidler, skillfully avoiding stereotype.
A Masterclass in Production and Design
This production is a technical marvel. The sets and costumes are nothing short of breathtaking, creating an immersive world of bohemian Paris. Under the musical supervision of Justin Levine, the full orchestra complements the singers without overwhelming them, a balance rarely achieved so perfectly.
The direction by Alex Timbers is crisp and dynamic, ensuring the story's pacing never falters. Sonya Tayeh's choreography is both sensuous and bold, adding layers of visual storytelling that make the show a continuous feast for the senses. The combination of these elements confirms that Moulin Rouge! The Musical is far more than a simple adaptation; it is a triumphant theatrical event that celebrates spectacle, song, and story in equal, dazzling measure.
