“Moulin Rouge! The Musical Announces Final Broadway Performance”
After an impressive seven-year run, “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” will conclude its Broadway journey. The final performance is scheduled for July 26 at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre. By that date, the production will have completed 2,265 performances, including 24 previews, ranking it as the 36th longest-running show in Broadway history.
Moulin Rouge’s Journey on Broadway
Debuting on July 25, 2019, “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” received positive reviews, showcasing a vibrant mix of music and theatrical flair. The show, based on Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 film, features popular hits from artists such as:
- Elton John – “Your Song”
- Lady Marmalade
- Sia – “Chandelier”
- Katy Perry – “Firework”
- Beyoncé – “Single Ladies”
The plot focuses on bohemians in Montmartre, Paris, aspiring to keep their beloved nightclub afloat. Despite consistently high ticket sales, producers cited no specific reason for the closure, though the production’s high costs, particularly those associated with music rights and extravagant staging, likely played a role.
Achievements and Legacy
The musical faced challenges during the pandemic, leading to its closure in March 2020. It reopened in September 2021 and went on to win 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Notable awards also went to:
- Best Director – Alex Timbers
- Best Book – John Logan
- Best Choreography – Sonya Tayeh
Remarkably, “Moulin Rouge!” recouped its investment by late 2022, becoming the only musical from the 2019-2020 season to achieve this milestone. Its success extended beyond Broadway, with 15 global productions, including a North American tour and performances in London, Germany, and Korea.
Final Months and Future Plans
Producer Carmen Pavlovic expressed gratitude for the opportunity to adapt the iconic film for the stage. She noted, “It’s truly been the honor of a lifetime… Alex Timbers’ vision and leadership, along with the passion of our entire creative team, has been unmatched.” As the show approaches its last performance, producers hinted at exciting announcements to come.
“We’ve always said that ‘Moulin Rouge! The Musical’ is a celebration of Broadway and of the artists who overcome challenges,” Pavlovic stated. The production looks forward to six more months of celebrating the remarkable talents behind the show and promises to reveal more information before the final curtain falls.
