Review: Moulin Rouge! The Musical Ignites Austin with a Dazzling Celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and Love
The national tour of Moulin Rouge! The Musical rolled into Bass Concert Hall for Broadway in Austin’s long-anticipated run (May 13–25). It brought a whirlwind of spectacle, emotion, and music that had the audience on their feet—and often singing along. Set in turn-of-the-century Paris and inspired by Baz Luhrmann’s iconic 2001 film, the stage version captures the same bold spirit, expanding it with nonstop musical mashups, breathtaking visuals, and a heartbeat that pulses with the rhythm of love and longing.
The show wastes no time drawing you in. In fact, it begins before the official curtain rises—can-can dancers and actors start about 10 minutes before curtain call, with soft, slow movements trying to draw you in. You’re not just at a show; you’re in the Moulin Rouge.
A Brief History of the Moulin Rouge
Before it became a global symbol of glamour and cabaret, the Moulin Rouge was a real place—built in 1889 in the Montmartre district of Paris. Known for its iconic red windmill and lavish performances, it became the birthplace of the modern can-can dance and a gathering place for bohemian artists, writers, and socialites. Immortalized by the painter Toulouse-Lautrec and beloved by Parisians and tourists alike, the Moulin Rouge has survived world wars and cultural revolutions, remaining one of the most famous entertainment venues in the world. Today, the original venue still stands in Paris—a living monument to freedom of expression, extravagant artistry, and timeless celebration.
While we didn’t get the chance to see a live show there, we did get some fun photos outside the historic venue—which made seeing the musical even more special.
The Story: A Bohemian Tragedy Wrapped in Glitter
The plot, mostly faithful to the movie, follows Christian, a young hopeful who arrives in Paris broke but full of dreams. He falls instantly for Satine, the dazzling star of the Moulin Rouge. But a case of mistaken identity draws her toward the wealthy and possessive Duke. What follows is a love triangle infused with secrets, sacrifice, and passion—all set against the iconic motto: Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and Love.
The emotional center of the show remains powerful, especially in numbers like “Come What May” and the deeply moving acoustic rendition of Katy Perry’s “Firework.” What was once an upbeat anthem is reimagined here into something delicate and haunting—a reflection of Satine’s internal conflict and fading hope.
The Music: A Jukebox on Fire
As self-proclaimed lifelong music lovers, we had a blast playing “name that tune” throughout the show—and we’re proud to say we got nearly all of them. With over 70 songs—from full performances to clever snippets—the musical is a jukebox on fire, blending everything from Beyoncé to The Police in themed medleys. “Diamonds,” “Elephant Love Medley,” and “Backstage Romance” are just a few examples of how perfectly these songs are woven into the story.
Highlights? Too many to name—but “El Tango De Roxanne” was an unexpected powerhouse, with Sting’s classic transformed into a passionate, almost painful duet of jealousy and desire. The audience collectively held its breath during that one. And “Your Song,” reprised near the end, brought a wave of emotion over the crowd.
Some audience members might miss certain pop references—especially older attendees—but the universal language of music and love ties it all together. There’s something for everyone, even if you’re not catching every beat.
The Cast & Creative
Robert Petkoff is pure charisma as Harold Zidler, the Moulin Rouge impresario, bringing heart and flamboyance in equal measure. Andrew Brewer’s Duke plays a convincing gentleman at first, only to gradually reveal his darker intentions. And Nick Rashad Burroughs as Toulouse-Lautrec—originally portrayed by John Leguizamo in the film—delivers an empathetic and spirited performance as the struggling playwright with soul.
The costumes? Stunning. The sets? Jaw-dropping. The lighting, the confetti cannons, the endless sparkle—it’s not just a musical, it’s an event. And at times, yes, it’s overwhelming in the best way. This is a show within a show, and it knows exactly how to dazzle.
Final Thoughts: Can-Can You Say Top 3?
Many around us declared this one of their all-time favorite Broadway experiences—right up there with Hamilton. We agree. Despite its longer runtime and just one intermission, Moulin Rouge! The Musical earns its applause and then some.
After seeing it live, we’re tempted to rewatch the film—though be warned: you may find yourself liking the musical more. It’s more than nostalgia or spectacle. It’s about the power of love—being willing to imagine a world where all that matters is to love and be loved in return.
Oh, and the songs? They’ll be stuck in your head for days. But that’s okay—you’ll leave the theater humming, smiling, and maybe even dancing.The show includes over 70 songs credited to 160 songwriters, administered by 30 publishers, representing over 160 years of music.The stage show features many of the iconic songs from the movie as well as additions from Adele, Katy Perry, Sia, Rihanna, Beyoncé, and more. Gaga’s “Bad Romance” was one of the crowd faves of the night. One fave surprise mashup was Nelly’s “Ride Wit Me”. We also loved tracks by Bowie, Talking Heads, Outkast, The Police, Rick Astley, Lorde, Marilyn Monroe, Kool & The Gang, Commodores, Pink, Whitney Houston, Walk the Moon, Queen, The Rolling Stones, U2, A ha, Pat Benatar, No Doubt, Tina Turner, Bob Dylan, Dolly Parton, Sia, Beck, Fatboy Slim- just to name a few!
Check out the playlist.
So if Moulin Rouge! rolls into your city, don’t miss it. Trust us—you can can can!
Info and tickets:
Bass Concert Hall
2350 Robert Dedman Dr
Austin, TX 78712
Through May 25th
Running time: 2 spectacular hrs and 35 mins with 1 intermission
Tickets at: https://texasperformingarts.org/event/moulin-rouge-broadway-austin-2025/
More about the show: https://moulinrougemusical.com/us-tour/home/
