Last night I went to see Burlesque: The Musical at the Wales Millennium Centre, and from the moment the curtain rose it was clear this show had one mission: to dazzle. What followed was one of the most exciting new musicals I’ve seen in years — a production bursting with glamour, attitude, and sheer theatrical joy. For fans of the 2010 film, this stage adaptation delivers all the sexy glitz and shimmering spectacle that made the movie iconic, while confidently carving out something fresh of its own.

The creative team behind Burlesque clearly understood the assignment. The show blends the film’s legendary soundtrack with a set of standout original numbers, creating a score that feels both nostalgic and newly electric. The added storylines slot in surprisingly well, expanding the world without ever losing sight of what makes Burlesque… Burlesque. It’s bold, it’s fun, and it knows exactly what it’s doing.

Visually, the production is nothing short of outstanding. The staging swings effortlessly between classic musical theatre design and moments that feel like you’re watching a real burlesque performance. And the costumes — dozens upon dozens of them — are a spectacle in their own right. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a show with more costume changes, each one more glamorous, flamboyant and meticulously crafted than the last. It’s everything you’d hope for from a show like this, and it absolutely delivers.

At the centre of it all is Gracie O’Brien as Ali, taking on an enormous role with astonishing ease. Her vocal strength is seemingly effortless, her dancing sharp and stylish, and she commands the stage with a confidence that makes her impossible to look away from. Faye Brookes shines as Tess, bringing grace, glamour and razor‑sharp wit — a perfect counterpart to O’Brien’s Ali and a magnetic presence throughout.

Vanessa Ela Young (Nikki), Macy Dermody Blythe (Queenie), Leah Pugh (Daphne), Freya Baddeley (Peaches) and Kizzi Pink Simpson (Pearl) wow the audience again and again, each performer adding their own flavour of charisma and talent. Ryan Carter as Sean and Davide Fienauri as Vince round out the principal cast beautifully, delivering strong, grounded performances that balance the show’s high‑octane glamour with heart and humour.

The wider cast — Tyler Davies as Jack, Darnell Matthew-James as Trey, Owen Stringer as Joe, Keith Alexander as Dash, as well as Callum Rose and Emily Jane Fiton — bring passion, precision and infectious energy to every number. Their collective performance gives the show its pulse, driving home the spectacle with authenticity and flair.

Burlesque is sharp, sexy, musically exhilarating and packed with heart. Whether you’re a fan of the film, a lover of burlesque, or simply looking for a night out that promises pure entertainment, this show is a must‑see (though perhaps not one for a family outing). It’s confident, it’s glamorous, and it’s easily one of the strongest new musicals to hit the stage in recent years.

Burlesque will be at the Wales Millennium Centre until the 5th September and tickets are selling out fast so gets yours now!

You can find out more about Burlesque on their website, Facebook and Instagram!

And keep a look out for what’s going on at the Wales Millennium Centre on their website, Facebook and Instagram!

All photo credit to Rosie Moore, The Social Sort