The Reviews For Burlesque The Musical Are In

Kevin, July 23rd, 2025

Burlesque is back and the critics are ready to dish

Burlesque is shaking its tassels from screen to stage, currently playing at London's Savoy Theatre. Set in a struggling Las Vegas lounge under threat from developers, Burlesque follows rising starlet Ali Rose as she finds her voice, her people, and her place in the spotlight. X Factor star Jess Folley, who returns to the role of Ali, has co-written new music for the show alongside Todrick Hall.

With choreography and direction by Nick Winston, songs from Christina Aguilera, SIA, and Diane Warren, and the backing of executive producer Aguilera herself, this is a West End debut that's loud and proud!

But are the critics raising a glass...or an eyebrow?

Critic Reviews Of Burlesque The Musical

"Goofy comedy is mixed with satire, provocative dancing, endless songs and somewhere is a romance and a reunion of a mother and child. There's even a trans storyline shoehorned in." - BroadwayWorld

"Todrick Hall's production has more vim than that other recently arrived contender in the hen party stakes, The Devil Wears Prada. And in the pairing of Jess Folley and the American singer Orfeh (who is making her West End debut) the evening unfurls some powerhouse vocals." - The Times

"It is over-adrenalised and messy in its plotting, but you forgive the blips. This is a production stuffed with personality, spectacle and wow factor. Come for the nostalgia, perhaps, but stay for the new kicks: bigger, naughtier and camp as hell." - The Guardian

"At points, the Burlesque musical feels like a massive Magic Mike production where shimmering torsos are the main characters, but away from the sensation, there is depth... Don't spend too much time worrying about [the plot]: this is the messy, chaotic world of burlesque and what matters is the vocals are in order." - City A.M

"It's rare to find a show that manages to be both a full-throttle spectacle and a genuinely feel-good experience, but Burlesque hits that sweet spot. You'll laugh, cheer, and leave the theatre wanting to do high kicks in sequins. It's bold, it's brash, and it's completely irresistible." - London Theatre Reviews

"Though not without its flaws, Burlesque The Musical delivers an exciting night at the Savoy Theatre. Its lavish production values and powerhouse vocals culminate in a finale awash with glittering confetti that leaves the house buzzing... Film fans may find Hall's expanded creative control as director, writer and choreographer both ambitious and distancing from the original emotional core, resulting in a bold reinvention rather than a faithful celebration." - West End Best Friend

NEWS, TICKETS, THEATRE & MORE

"Broadway and show news straight to your inbox!"

MORE reviews