Burlesque the Musical: West End Bound and Ready to Dazzle
- Team Written
- Mar 24
- 5 min read
The lights of London's West End are set to shine even brighter as "Burlesque the Musical" prepares for its highly anticipated premiere at the iconic Savoy Theatre. From July 10th to September 6th, 2025, audiences will be transported into a world of sequins, soaring vocals, and seductive choreography, all inspired by the beloved 2010 film of the same name. Adding to the excitement, Christina Aguilera, the powerhouse vocalist who led the film, takes on the role of executive producer for this stage adaptation. This transition from screen to stage signifies a fresh take on a story that has already captured the hearts of many, promising a live theatrical experience that could offer new dimensions to the familiar narrative.
At the heart of "Burlesque the Musical" lies the captivating journey of Ali, a determined young woman who trades the quiet life of small-town Iowa for the vibrant energy of New York City. Unlike the film, where Ali's primary goal was to become a singer in Los Angeles, the stage musical introduces a more personal quest: her search for her birth mother. This significant plot alteration adds a layer of emotional depth to Ali's ambition to perform. Her journey leads her to a struggling burlesque club owned by the formidable Tess, where she starts as a waitress and soon discovers her innate talent for the art of burlesque. The narrative beautifully unfolds as Ali not only finds her voice on stage but also discovers a sense of belonging within the club's vibrant community.
A notable change from the film is the evolved relationship between Ali and Tess. The musical reimagines their connection as a mother-daughter dynamic. This familial bond adds significant emotional weight to their interactions, exploring themes of mentorship and the strength found in family connections. Furthermore, the stakes are raised by the introduction of Tess's ex-husband, Vince, who steps into the role of the primary antagonist, posing a threat to the club's survival. This clear source of conflict provides a compelling dramatic arc, highlighting the resilience and determination of Ali and Tess as they fight to protect their dreams and their newfound family.
Bringing this dazzling world to life is a talented ensemble of performers and creatives. The pivotal role of Ali is played by Jess Folley, whose vocal prowess has already garnered praise in the show's earlier runs. Opposite her, Jackie Burns, a seasoned Broadway performer known for her long tenure as Elphaba in "Wicked," embodies the strong and resilient Tess. George Maguire takes on the role of the antagonist, Vince, adding dramatic tension to the story. Rounding out the lead cast is the multi-talented Todrick Hall, who plays the charismatic Sean and also takes on the delightful role of Miss Loretta.
The vision for this production is helmed by director and choreographer Nick Winston, whose expertise in musical theatre promises a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. The narrative foundation comes from the book written by Steven Antin, the director of the original film, with additional material by Kate Wetherhead. The musical landscape is enriched by the contributions of several talented songwriters, including Christina Aguilera, Sia, Diane Warren, Todrick Hall, and Jess Folley, ensuring a blend of familiar hits and exciting new compositions. The visual spectacle is further enhanced by the talents of Soutra Gilmour (set design), Ryan Dawson Laight (costume design), and Chris Poon (musical director). This blend of established and emerging talent suggests a production poised to deliver both high-caliber performances and a fresh, dynamic energy.
Beyond the dazzling spectacle, "Burlesque the Musical" delves into profound themes of ambition, self-discovery, and female empowerment. Ali's journey from a small town to the bright lights of New York, fueled by her desire to find her mother and her burgeoning passion for performance, perfectly encapsulates the relentless pursuit of dreams. Her transformation from an uncertain newcomer to a confident star on the burlesque stage highlights the powerful process of self-discovery, finding her true voice and identity in an unexpected world. The heart of the musical also beats with the theme of female empowerment, evident in the camaraderie and support among the women at the club, particularly in the evolving mother-daughter relationship between Ali and Tess.
The setting of a burlesque club itself is historically significant as a space where women have challenged societal norms and celebrated their agency. This context enriches the exploration of female empowerment within the musical. Just as Ali's fictional journey resonates with these themes, the real world is filled with examples of individuals who have overcome obstacles to pursue their passions in the performing arts. Many artists face financial instability, constant rejection, and the pressure to conform, yet they persevere, driven by their ambition and a deep sense of self. Their stories, much like Ali's, highlight the courage and resilience required to chase seemingly impossible dreams. Furthermore, the art of burlesque has evolved to become a celebration of body positivity and inclusivity, showcasing diverse performers and challenging traditional beauty standards, thus embodying a contemporary form of female empowerment.
Audiences can anticipate a spectacular sensory experience with "Burlesque the Musical." The production seamlessly blends beloved songs from the film, such as "Welcome to Burlesque," "Show Me How You Burlesque," "Express," and "You Haven't Seen the Last of Me," with exciting new original material penned by Christina Aguilera, Sia, Diane Warren, Todrick Hall, and Jess Folley. This combination aims to delight fans of the original soundtrack while offering a fresh and dynamic musical journey.
The choreography, a collaborative effort between Nick Winston and Todrick Hall, is sizzling and energetic, injecting the essential "burlesque" spirit into the stage. Drawing inspiration from iconic styles like Fosse, "Cabaret," and "Chicago", the dance numbers are both technically impressive and visually captivating, a true celebration of movement that is central to the art of burlesque. Adding to the spectacle is the lavish set design by Soutra Gilmour, often featuring a multi-levelled and revolving stage . Enhanced by Nina Dunn's video design and Jack Knowles' lighting, the production creates an immersive and visually stunning world for the audience. Notably, Todrick Hall's new songs, such as "Big" and "Bigger," have rich musicality, dynamic choreography, and visual flair, even incorporating a historical perspective on burlesque and paying homage to legends of musical comedy .
"Burlesque the Musical" promises to be a dazzling addition to London's West End. With its compelling story of ambition and self-discovery, a talented cast and creative team, a vibrant musical score, and a proven track record of audience enthusiasm, this is one show that is sure to leave audiences feeling empowered and thoroughly entertained. The transformation from beloved film to a dynamic stage production, coupled with the star power of Christina Aguilera and the positive buzz from its earlier runs, makes "Burlesque the Musical" a must-see event at the Savoy Theatre this summer.
Tickets from £25
