(3.5 / 5)

Burlesque certainly is what the Millennium Centre tagline promises, ‘a big new musical’! It’s full of bright lights, flashy costumes, high octane dance numbers and massive vocals across the board. Based on the film of the same name starring Cher and Christina Aguilera, it’s sure to have a cult following and a passionate fan base.

Following the events of the film closely, Ali heads off to New York City to find her estranged mother; a mother who just so happens to run a Burlesque club, full of huge characters, lots of drama, and plenty of backstage shenanigans. Along the way she goes from waitress to centre stage, finds love, foils a dastardly plot to put the club under and, ultimately, reunites with her mother, Tess.

The strengths of the show definitely lie in its incredible performers. The vocals are insanely good, with the performers easily belting out the huge numbers. Gracie O’Brien shines as Ali, effortlessly hitting the audience with big note after big note. She has some of the biggest, most difficult numbers in the show and she doesn’t falter once. More brilliant vocals come from Faye Brookes as the highly flawed, but highly likeable Tess. Her duets with O’Brien’s Ali are particularly lovely. Ryan Carter delivers style and sass as Sean and delivers some of the biggest numbers of the show with ease.

The dancing is slick, fast paced, undeniably full of the sex appeal that makes Burlesque so popular as an art form. The whole cast and ensemble bring huge energy and passion to every number; the talent on stage here is palpable. The large numbers are definitely a highlight and even the smaller numbers feature some exceptional movement and dancing.

A slight weakness for me were antithesis to this high octane energy, some of the scenes feel slower and more plodding by comparison. There are some really funny and heartfelt moments throughout but some of the important plot points seem a little lost in the longer scenes.

All in all though, it’s a night to remember whether you have seen the film or if you’re brand new to the story. It’s big, it’s flashy, it’s the perfect night out and definitely worth grabbing a ticket for! This big new show is the perfect antidote to a long day at work and will make you want to leave your seat and dance along with them.