REVIEW - BURLESQUE THE MUSICAL | MANCHESTER OPERA HOUSE | 10/10/2024

Strutting straight into Manchester Opera House with sky-high heels, a glitter-cannon of confidence, and a whole lot of heart, Burlesque The Musical has landed – and what a landing it is. Based on the 2010 cult film starring Cher and Christina Aguilera, this all-new stage adaptation by Steve Antin, with direction and choreography from Nick Winston, takes everything you remember and dials it up to 100.

This world premiere isn’t just a stage version of the movie – it’s a total reimagining. Featuring new songs by the likes of Christina Aguilera, Sia, Diane Warren, Todrick Hall, and Jess Folley (with Hall and Folley also starring), Burlesque The Musical is a fierce, funny, feel-good extravaganza that has its sights firmly set on the West End and Broadway. But for now, Manchester gets it first – and what a treat that is.

At the heart of Burlesque is a familiar but empowering tale of self-discovery. Ali Rose (Jess Folley) is a small-town girl with big dreams and a voice to match. When she finds out she was adopted, she swaps Iowa for New York, chasing answers and a chance to belong. Her journey leads her to a struggling burlesque club run by the tough but tender Tess (Jackie Burns), where sequins meet soul and second chances are stitched into every feather boa.

With romance, rivalry, redemption, and rhinestones, Burlesque serves up a story that’s part showbiz fairytale, part fierce feminist anthem – all while never taking itself too seriously. There’s charm, camp, and genuine emotion throughout. And at the centre of it all is a message of self-belief, love, and chosen family.

From the moment the curtain lifts, it’s crystal clear: Burlesque is a visual feast. Soutra Gilmour’s versatile, rotating set turns the Opera House stage into a New York cabaret club, a dingy diner, a twinkling apartment block, and everything in between. Nina Dunn’s video designs add layers of depth and magic – from rain-slicked rooftops to showbiz sparkle – while Jack Knowles' lighting moves us from moody backstage shadows to spotlight-stealing glamour in an instant.

The costumes? Jaw-dropping. Ryan Dawson Laight’s designs channel old-school burlesque with a modern urban twist: glittering corsets, sky-high heels, flowing silks, and statement streetwear. You’ll want every single look.

Nick Winston’s choreography is a high-octane blend of Broadway razzle-dazzle, Fosse flair, and fierce contemporary movement. From sultry stripteases to jaw-dropping ensemble numbers, the dance work is slick, sexy, and seriously impressive. The ensemble give it everything – you can feel the heat radiating off the stage.

And then there’s the music. Iconic numbers from the film – “Welcome to Burlesque”, “Express”, “You Haven’t Seen the Last of Me” – are joined by bold new bangers and emotional ballads. “Sugar Daddy Diet”, “Big”, “Ammo”, “Home”, and “Got It All From You” are all standout tracks that feel instantly iconic. Musical director Chris Poon and the hidden-onstage band bring it all to life with power and polish.

It’s rare to see a cast this stacked with talent, but Burlesque delivers the goods and then some.

Jess Folley is extraordinary as Ali. Her vocals are nothing short of spectacular – rich, raw, and emotional – and she brings a beautiful vulnerability and steel to the role. And yes, she wrote some of the songs. I’m not sure how that level of talent is even legal.

Todrick Hall is the ultimate showman as Sean (and also the divine Miss Loretta!). His charisma is magnetic, his vocals flawless, and his timing razor-sharp. Whether he’s delivering a hilarious aside or commanding the stage with “Big” and “Bigger”, Hall is utterly electric.

Jackie Burns – Broadway royalty – is a powerhouse as Tess. Her rendition of “You Haven’t Seen the Last of Me” gave me goosebumps from head to toe. She brings gravity and warmth to Tess, delivering a performance that is equal parts fire and heart.

Nina Ann Nelson gives Nikki real depth, avoiding caricature in favour of nuance, while George Maguire is pitch-perfect as slimy ex-husband Vince – a villain you’ll love to hiss at. Michael Mather is a total charmer as Jackson, bringing gentle comedy, chemistry and sincerity to his scenes with Folley.

And then there’s the ensemble. What. A. Team. They sing, they dance, they flip and fly, all while delivering impeccable attitude and energy. Every single one deserves a standing ovation.

Burlesque The Musical isn’t just a show – it’s a full-blown celebration of everything theatre should be: bold, brilliant, and bursting with heart. From its knockout vocals to its jaw-dropping visuals, this is a production that doesn’t just sparkle – it roars with confidence and charisma.

But what makes Burlesque truly special is the way it makes you feel. It’s empowering without being preachy, heartfelt without being heavy, and joyously outrageous without ever losing its emotional core. Whether you're here for the glitter, the power ballads, the high-heeled sass or the story of finding your voice, Burlesque delivers on every level.

This world premiere in Manchester feels like the beginning of something big – a show destined for West End spotlights and Broadway marquees. So don’t wait for the tour or the hype to catch up – this is your moment to see it first, while it’s fresh, fierce, and unforgettable.

✨ "Burlesque doesn’t just raise the curtain – it sets the stage on fire." 💃🔥

Burlesque The Musical is at the Manchester Opera House until Saturday 2nd November 2024. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.

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If you would like more information about the show, please click the button below to visit the show's official website.

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