By Jocelyn Chui
Anyone who has been a new parent would know that leaving the house for a couple hours of me-time can be a big production: find a babysitter, leave detailed notes, put on some decent clothes (preferably clean)…the list goes on. But as a new parent of a 10-month-old, I can assure you that Moulin Rouge! The Musical! currently playing at the Paramount Theatre is worth every second of preparation in order to leave the door. In fact, this ten 2021 Tony Awards winning production is so captivating that I may just do all the legwork to watch it again before its last show on January 1.
Fans of Baz Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge! can expect to see the original storyline and popular songs like “Come What May”, “Diamonds Are For Forever” and “Your Song”, as well as titles by Lady Gaga, Lordle and Sia. The updated songbook with its modern touch and humor rewraps the iconic film to a theatrical musical mash-up extravaganza with a big shiny red bow on top.
The high energy and surreal atmosphere begins the moment you set foot into the theatre. The opulent architecture and lavish attention to detail immediately take you to the famous Parisian cabaret. And if you are not sold by the grand setting, once the light dims and your attention is drawn to the elephant up in the air, no doubt you will be in tuned with the passion and toe-tapping energy of the immersive production and music.
Although I’m no stranger to the plot of Moulin Rouge, watching this musical during the holiday season evokes some unexpected reflection. Unlike the perfect and effortless fairytale that is often seen in holiday movies, Moulin Rouge presents a front row seat to passion, chaos, and challenges that are arguably more relatable. This bold vision of love that is messy and thrilling reminds the audience of how it feels to fall in love fearlessly and hold on to the courage of love conquers all.
Of all the songs, keep an eye out for “Shut Up and Raise Your Glass”. Along with Courtney Reed who plays as Satine, Andrew Brewer, the understudy playing as Christian captured the infectious energy of someone ignited by hopes and dreams. As the story progressed and Christian was heartbroken, the emotions portrayed in “Crazy Rolling” became vividly convincing.
Overall, the experience of Moulin Rouge! The Musical! At the Paramount is one of the best gifts found in Seattle this holiday. For whatever reason if you found yourself dragging your feet to leave the house, this musical will not disappoint.
Photo by Matthew Murphy.