Moulin Rouge! The Musical will make its China debut in Shanghai this December at the New Bund 31 Performing Arts Center, with tickets now on sale.

Ahead of the premiere, cast members made a special appearance in Shanghai's Xuhui commercial zone on May 3 and 4. The lead actors treated the crowd to solo performances of Firework and Roxanne, and later delivered romantic duets of Your Song and Come What May, offering a glimpse of the passion and drama to come.

Based on the classic film Moulin Rouge, the musical transports audiences to late 19th-century Paris, following the tragic love story of Christian, a young composer, and Satine, a dazzling stage star. Torn between idealism and reality, devotion and survival, the two struggle to preserve their love against overwhelming odds.

The musical premiered in 2018 and made its Broadway debut the following year, earning 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Seen by more than 12 million people worldwide, it has become one of the most acclaimed and popular stage productions in recent years.

A major highlight of the show is its eclectic score, which weaves together more than 70 beloved songs from different eras, blending pop, rock, jazz, and tango. The China tour will feature additional enhancements tailored for local audiences.

Visually, the production is equally striking. The stage is dominated by deep red velvet curtains, gilded carved columns, and a signature red windmill. At its center stands a nearly 18-meter-high elephant tower set piece, complemented by a giant heart-shaped arch and vintage chandeliers, creating a richly layered and immersive space.

If you go

When: Dec 15, 2026 to Jan 3, 2027

Where: New Bund 31 Performing Arts Center, No 777 West Gaoqing Road, Pudong New Area

Ticket prices: 180 yuan ($26.48) to 1,480 yuan

Sources: New Bund 31 Performing Arts Center, Xuhui district government