Producers of the Tony-winning Broadway blockbuster have revealed that the renowned rapper and actress Megan Thee Stallion will join the production for a portion of its closing phase.
The three-time Grammy-winning artist will make her Broadway debut in the role of Zidler, the larger-than-life manager of the iconic Paris nightclub, in an eight-week limited engagement beginning Tuesday, March 24. Performances will be held at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre in New York City and will run through Sunday, May 17.
“Stepping onto the Broadway stage and joining the Moulin Rouge! The Musical team is an absolute honor,” Megan said in a statement, per People. “I’ve always believed in pushing myself creatively and theater is definitely a new opportunity that I’m excited to embrace. Broadway demands a different level of discipline, preparation and storytelling, but I’m up for the challenge and can’t wait for the Hotties to see a new side of me.”
With this casting, Megan will become the first female-identifying performer to portray Zidler in any production of Moulin Rouge! The Musical worldwide.
The character was originally brought to life on screen by Jim Broadbent in Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 film adaptation. Since then, several celebrated performers have stepped into the role on stage, beginning with Broadway veteran Danny Burstein, who earned his first Tony Award after six prior nominations. Tituss Burgess, Boy George, and Wayne Brady have also inhabited the charismatic impresario’s shoes.
Current Zidler, Bob the Drag Queen, a winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, is set to conclude his limited engagement in the role on Sunday, March 22.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical is slated to take its final bow on July 26. Directed by Tony-winner Alex Timbers and featuring a book by John Logan, the show opened in 2019 and became one of the few newer productions to endure Broadway’s COVID-19 shutdown. The stage production blends songs from the original movie with newer pop hits. Its score spans more than 160 years of music, ranging from Offenbach to Lady Gaga.
Producer Carmen Pavlovic described Megan’s casting as a pivotal moment for the show as it prepares to close.
“Welcoming Megan Thee Stallion into the Moulin Rouge! The Musical community is a thrilling moment for us,” Pavlovic said. “Megan is a true global superstar. She is one of the most influential artists of her generation and her impact on music and culture is undeniable.”
“This historic casting is a major part of our closing celebrations: our farewell gift to Broadway audiences and one of our biggest announcements in the history of Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” Pavlovic continued. “We want our show to go out with a spectacular bang, and Megan is the force of nature to lead us there. And yes, there will be a hint of music from her own iconic catalogue. It’s an unmissable moment for both Megan’s fans and ours.”
