Truth, beauty, freedom, and love define Moulin Rouge! The Musical, based on Baz Luhrmann’s iconic 2001 film and winner of 10 Tony Awards. The production ran at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre from January 20 to 25.
Directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers and written by John Logan, Moulin Rouge! The Musical follows Satine (Gabriela Carrillo), a star of the famed Parisian cabaret, and Christian (Ryan Vasquez), an idealistic American, as they navigate a tumultuous love affair.
I was especially awestruck by the set design. Tony Award winner Derek McLane transforms the theatre into a lavish, immersive, bohemian Parisian cabaret, featuring multiple parallel heart-shaped portals, which were my favourite design elements.
Tony Award-winning costume designer Catherine Zuber outfits the cast in custom looks that blend Parisian silhouettes with edgy, contemporary couture. Her designs favour visual impact and storytelling, using modern elements and vibrant colours while honouring the bohemian spirit of 1890s Paris.
The musical is a jukebox show featuring well-known pop songs such as “Firework” by Katy Perry, “Chandelier” by Sia, and “Take On Me” by a-ha. My favourite moment was Christian and Satine’s performance of “Your Song” by Elton John, which captured their budding love with moving passion and emotion.
I found the play incredibly powerful, inspiring, and moving. I love how the story explores themes of survival and ambition. The characters are continually forced to choose between their personal desires (love) and their professional goals (saving the Moulin Rouge or achieving stardom). This was the best musical I’ve ever seen! The cast and crew were phenomenal. Watching the movie is now a must, and I’d gladly see the musical again!
Rating: 5/5
Date watched: January 22nd, 2026
Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver BC
Theatre 604 
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