Burlesque The Musical – Review – Bradford Alhambra Theatre
By Christine Goode, September 2026
It’s an unusually warm evening in mid-September. With most back in their school and work routines, the autumn theatre season offers a welcome lift as the nights draw in and winter approaches. Crowds are heading to Bradford Alhambra, some dressed more extravagantly than usual – a nod to the show. Two young men on their way to the nearby gym stop to ask, “Is there something happening at the Alhambra?” “Yes, it’s a big show!” I reply enthusiastically. Looking bemused, they continue to the gym. But for us tonight, ladies and gentlemen, it’s not just any show: it’s Burlesque, the eagerly awaited new musical based on the original film starring Christina Aguilera and Cher, now touring the UK and attracting thousands of fans.
When we arrive at the theatre, front of house is busier than normal, so I manage to have a quick scan around to see the make-up of this much-anticipated show’s audience. It covers a wide range of ages and genders, highlighting the show’s broad appeal. Unfortunately, technical problems delay the performance by around twenty minutes; however, this does not detract from the show.
Beginning with a soft opening, the house lights are still up as audience members take their seats. Cast members casually enter the backstage setting, warming up and stretching, applying make-up and chatting to each other, allowing the audience to see a little of what goes on behind the scenes in the theatre.
Eventually, the house lights go down and the show starts with the hit song ‘Welcome to Burlesque’. And boy, what a welcome! A visual spectacular, the lights, costumes, performers and music are superb. Loud, proud, sexy and sassy, this opening number will blow your socks off. We are hooked immediately.
“Sharp and precise”
We then meet Ali Rose, a small-town girl from Iowa who is searching for her birth mother. She discovers her address and travels to New York, where she finds that her mother is the owner of a struggling burlesque club in serious financial difficulty. Tess, unaware that Ali is her daughter, gives her a frosty reception. Ali befriends barman Jack, who persuades Tess to hire her as a barmaid. Tess reluctantly agrees but soon discovers Ali’s talent when she saves a performance after lead singer Nikki is sacked and a power cut leaves the rest of the cast struggling.
The cast are all superb. Ali, played by Gracie O’Brien, gives an outstanding performance on her professional debut. Her character and vocals are very reminiscent of Christina Aguilera in the original film, yet she manages to put her own stamp on the role. Tess, played by Faye Brookes, is flawless. Her bossy character has a cheeky side, while Brookes also manages to reveal her vulnerability, especially in her scenes with Ali.
Sean, played by Ryan Carter, brings the camp and is fabulous and funny, with a huge side helping of scrummy vocals. Nikki, played by Vanessa Ela Young, is simply beautiful and gives a standout performance – I could not take my eyes off her. The rest of the cast are all top class; their vocals and choreography are sharp and precise, delivered with relentless energy.
“Many flourishes”
This show within a show is enhanced by Sarah Perks’s ingenious set design, which moves us seamlessly between the stage, dressing room, bar and apartment. Sumptuous velvet curtains, sculpted period balconies and footlights frame the circular stage, contrasting with Jack’s small, modern apartment.
Joshie Harriette’s lighting is equally spectacular, bathing the production in the rich pinks, reds and purples expected of a burlesque club. Marco Morante’s costume design delivers full-on glitzy glamour, with sequins, feathers and velvet among its many flourishes. It is a feast for the eyes, and every costume is unique.
The narrative of the show differs from the original 2010 movie, and only a few of the songs from the film have made it into the musical. I found this disappointing, as the original film soundtrack has some real bangers that would be great in this production. Having thirty-four songs in the show is a lot to get through and, at times, I feel this has an impact on the story, leaving me to enjoy the spectacle of the big numbers rather than being moved by a compelling background tale.
However, it is a packed theatre, the energy is high and the audience has a great time, reinforcing my motto that you can NEVER have too much glitter, sequins or feathers!
Burlesque the Musical is at Bradford Alhambra until 26th September
images: Rosie Moore
Christine Goode founded her own dance school – The May School of Dance & Theatre Arts over three decades ago. Her dedication to teaching and love of dance, has created many successful artists in the industry, and she is delighted that many of her former students have now returned with their children, allowing them to also discover this beautiful art. She has choreographed, produced and directed shows over the last 36 years, and is devoted to all live theatre and music. Now in her third year of writing about her obsession with the arts, Christine loves to encourage everyone to see as much live theatre as possible.
maydanceschool.co.uk
