MOULIN ROUGE! Broadway Casting Thread — Page 3

Derek Klena is no ''stunt casting.'' ''Moulin Rouge!'' will be his 5th Broadway show. Klena starred as Dmitry,  in ''Anastasia,'' and got Tony nominated for ''Jagged Little Pill.'' His name might not be a giant box-office draw right now, but as Sutton Ross notes, ''Moulin Rouge!'' is really the star. Its actors are just another part of the Tony-winning package that boasts stunning sets, costumes and music. However, Klena has a terrific voice and leading-man looks, I bet he'll be an incredible Christian. 

''Stunt casting'' usually refers to bringing in someone who has gained celebrity in another medium (i.e., movies, reality TV) and often is making their stage debut. (The Weisslers are pros at this practice. See Pamela Anderson in ''Chicago.'' )

''While it’s still a diverse cast [in 'Moulin Rouge!'], it is unfortunate that the production isn’t embracing people of color in the leading roles.''

If you look at the Broadway, London and U.S. national touring casts of ''Moulin Rouge!,'' they are each showcases of diversity. Which is no accident. Last summer, ''Moulin Rouge!'' hired Chloe Beck for a newly created position: as director of the show's equality, diversity and inclusion efforts. In the 2000 Baz Luhrmann movie, Satine was played by Nicole Kidman. But onstage, ''Moulin Rouge!'' has cast an actress of color to open as Satine, its leading lady: Karen Olivo, on Broadway; Liisi LaFontaine in London, and Courtney Reed on the U.S. national tour. 

Updated On: 4/9/22 at 12:17 AM

I’m really looking forward to Ashley Loren being bumped up, she is really amazing. I’ve seen Natalie three times and am hoping to get a chance to see Ashley now. 
 

Just a reminder that Karen Olivo now uses they/them pronouns :)

There is not a standby for Christian. I’ve never seen Aaron Finley as Christian, his performances are few and far between because of Tveit’s previously stated work ethic.

I saw the show last night and just adored Ashley. I’d only ever seen Karen do it but thought Ashley brought something really special and sweet to the role that Karen never had. 

Personal opinions from seeing the show last week: I think Ashley is the best Satine to have performed in the few times I've seen the show, and she really gripped me with her performance last week. Derek is doing fine, but still needs a little bit of vocal work and the two of them need some time to get their chemistry perfected, but I really did enjoy his performance (and especially Roxanne).

But I want to really praise Declan Bennett, who is spectacular as the Duke. I loved Tam's performance each time, but I think Declan brings a much more sneering, condescending tone to the character that really makes you love to hate him; that's not something that is easy to do.

Also, he's not one of the May 10 cast changes, but Eric Anderson's Zidler had me in stitches. Much more physical with his comedy than Danny was (and I loved Danny's Zidler!), and he stole the show for me every time he was onstage.

OMG, AARON!

Did Aaron do all 8 weekly performances during his first run?  I have a trip planned on a Wednesday and Thursday, but I'm seeing Phantom both evening shows. I could squeeze in the Wednesday matinee of "Moulin Rouge," but wondered what my chances of seeing Aaron would be.

Thanks!

He had great attendance but he’s hardly the first principal actor in a Broadway musical to do so. 

Worst acting I've seen on a Broadway stage. The ending was laughable, zero emotion or chemistry. 

Vocally, amazing. 

Aaron and Ashley have great chemistry.

I think attendance is sagging and they are bringing back their Tony winning star for maybe a boost?

I just don’t like Derek Klena - I found him pitchy and way off key during the Parade

Having seen the tour, André Ward and David Harris are wonderful additions to the Broadway company. André in particular is heartbreaking as Toulouse Lautrec.

jbroadway4 said: "Grammy award winning singer/actress, JoJo, seems to be hinting on her Instagram that she's joining the cast! I'm assuming as Satine. Perfect casting! Excited to finally see her on a Broadway stage."

Is this the same JoJo from the hit film Aquamarine?! 

Sounds exciting, but assuming this news is true, I’m also getting convinced the show only has a number of months left in the tank (this stunt cast, plus Tveit’s impending return to try and drum up interest). 

MR’s grosses look fine at the moment, but does it survive past Labor Day 2023?