Am I the only one who is brought to tears when a concert or play is just THAT good? I hope not.
There are two sure-fire ways I know I’ve witnessed a truly great production: 1. I don’t get the least bit drowsy at any point in the show – a rare feat for “always tired” me, especially during the evening shows. And 2. My eyes well up with tears as the cast takes its final bow. Appreciation always seems to find its way out of me through tears, and that’s what I experienced at Broadway in Richmond’s Moulin Rouge, amid the audience’s thunderous applause.
I had just seen legendary Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski speak at The Richmond Forum at the same venue a few weeks prior, and as I looked around the packed Altria Theater, I couldn’t help but feel so much gratitude and pride that our city has so many amazing opportunities for folks to forget about their troubles and shut off all of the noise of the outside world for a few hours and just sit back and enjoy a thing.
And if music is your thing, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is THE thing you need to see while it’s in Richmond at Altria Theater through Sunday, March 16. Winner of 10 Tony awards and featuring a fun mashup of 70 songs spanning 160 years of music of contemporary hits and timeless classics, the stage show features many of the iconic songs from the movie, as well as additional songs from the likes of Adele, Katy Perry, Sia, Rihanna, Beyoncé, and many more.
Eye-Popping Costumes and Choreography
From the moment the curtain rises, you are transported to the iconic Moulin Rouge cabaret, with its dazzling sets, vibrant costumes, and stunning visual effects that take your breath away. The production is a feast for the senses, blending music, dance, and storytelling in a way that feels fresh and thrilling.
The choreography is stunning, with dazzling dance numbers that feel both modern and timeless. The costumes, designed with a perfect blend of glam and grit, are nothing short of spectacular. The entire ensemble creates a visual feast that matches the energy and flair of the original movie, making it an absolute joy to watch from start to finish.
I took my 16-year-old son, who is neck deep in his high school’s theater program, and his glowing review included high marks for lighting design and stellar vocal performances all around.
Vocal High Notes
No surprise on the vocal props, as the touring cast has a mountain of Broadway credits under its collective belt. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, particularly in the relationship between Christian, played by Jay Armstrong Johnson, and Satine, played by Arianna Rosario, whose emotional depth anchors the high-energy spectacle. The cast’s voices soar through iconic hits like “Lady Marmalade,” “Your Song,” and “Roxanne,” with each number expertly choreographed and bringing the house down.
Moulin Rouge Sparkles with Heart and Soul
Moulin Rouge is an unforgettable experience, sparkling with energy, heart, and soul, delivering a night of entertainment that leaves you on a high note. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or new to the world of Moulin Rouge, this production is a must-see—an absolute celebration of love, music, and spectacle.
Moulin Rouge is at Altria Theater through Sunday, March 16. Tickets are available at BroadwayInRichmond.com, the Altria Theater box office, or by calling 1-800-514-3849(ETIX). Groups of 20 or more are available by calling 804-592-3401 or emailing Groups@BroadwayInRichmond.com.
Read RFM’s interview with Danny Burgos, who plays Santiago in the touring production.
Check out the 2025-2026 Broadway in Richmond season here.
