Every once in a while, a show comes along that’s not just fantastic but electrifying, setting the entire venue alight. The gala night of Burlesque at the Manchester Opera House was such a once-in-a-decade experience. Burlesque in the 2020s is poised to be what Hamilton was in the 2010s and Wicked in the 2000s. As a theatre enthusiast who rarely finds a show I don’t love, Burlesque stands in a league of its own, and here’s why…

About Burlesque

Based on the 2010 film directed by Steven Antin, the show pays homage to the film that starred Christina Aguilera in her debut alongside Cher, Stanley Tucci, Kristen Bell, Cam Gigandet, Eric Dane, and Alan Cumming. Known for its spectacular musical numbers, glamorous costumes, and star-studded cast, the film Burlesque celebrated the vibrant art of burlesque performance.

The Story of Burlesque

The plot follows Ali (Jess Folley), a small-town girl who moves to New York in search of her estranged birth mother. She discovers The Burlesque Lounge, a majestic but struggling theatre that hosts burlesque performances. Tess (Jackie Burns), the club’s owner and headliner, is fighting to keep the club afloat with the help of her longtime friend Sean (Todrick Hall).

Ali meets Jackson (Michael Mather) and lands a job as a cocktail waitress. Her incredible singing talent soon impresses Tess and the club’s staff. With her powerful voice and natural stage presence, Ali becomes the star attraction, revitalizing the club and drawing a new wave of visitors, much to the displeasure of club starlet Nikki (Nina Ann Nelson). As Ali navigates her new life, she struggles with revealing her true identity to friends, loved ones, and her birth mother. How will they handle this life-changing news?

My Review of Burlesque

Burlesque bursts onto the stage and into the audience’s hearts as soon as the curtain rises. The first track feels like a finale, and it only escalates from there, becoming more explosive by the minute. Before you know it, it’s the interval, but you’re not ready. You crave more.

The entire cast is phenomenal, a star-studded, incredibly talented team of principals who shine brightly yet complement each other perfectly. Each brings a unique, explosive element, creating the perfect storm, supported by a stunningly talented ensemble. You leave feeling like you never want it to end; the audience went wild, and the excitement was palpable throughout.

Everything about the production is electric; it’s the best set I have seen in a long time. It all feels so fresh and current, with dynamic backdrops and foregrounds making it hard to decide whether to watch the cast or the surrounding spectacle.

Where Can You See Burlesque

If you love theatre, you must go; I felt like I was watching history unfold right there. 

You Can See Burlesque At The Opera House in Manchester, but be quick, it’s selling out. 

• Thu 13 Jun – Sat 29 Jun 2024
• Thu 3 Oct – Sat 2 Nov 2024

Please note I was gifted the tickets in turn for a review, opinions are all my own.