ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On October 21, the curtain rose at Popejoy Hall for the opening of Moulin Rouge! The Musical, and for two glittering hours, the audience was transported into a world of splendor, romance, and sheer spectacle.
From the very first confetti cannon blast, it was clear we were in for a night of pure theatrical joy. Brilliant colors filled the stage, the air shimmered with sequins, and the music pulsed through the hall. The iconic Parisian cabaret of Baz Luhrmann’s film came to life with breathtaking light, movement, and energy.
So Ex-ci-ting!
Jay Armstrong Johnson who brought grief and joy to the character Christian and Jerica Exum who dazzled as Satine led a strong cast whose chemistry carried the story with passion and grace. Exum’s voice soared and her stage presence shimmered, but it was Andrew Brewer’s Duke of Monroth who stole scenes with chilling elegance — a villain you could feel in your chest. Danny Burgos (Santiago) and Kaitlin Mesh (Nini) ignited the stage with their tango, a showstopping moment that drew cheers from the crowd.
The technical side of this production deserves its own standing ovation.
The lighting was cinematic, the sets breathtaking. Every transition was fluid and every visual a feast. When the scene shifted to the exterior of the Moulin Rouge, and the stage seemed to open to the night itself, I was captured by the stage. Completely spellbound. The designers managed to open up the roof and let the shimmer of moonlight and starlight into Popejoy in a way that felt almost supernatural.
As someone who often writes about the serious and sometimes disheartening realities of the world — conflict, corruption, and struggle — nights like this are a reminder of why art matters. Moulin Rouge! The Musical offered a brief, beautiful escape. It reminded us that truth, beauty, freedom, and love are not just lyrics or slogans, but vital human needs.
Thanks to Popejoy Hall and its partners, audiences in New Mexico have the opportunity to experience the magic of Broadway without leaving home. For students, families, and anyone needing a spark of joy in difficult times, this show delivers that in spades.
When the lights came up, I found myself speechless — breathless, even. The only words that came to mind were simple: Wow wow wow wow wow wow wow.
EVERYBODY CANCAN!