Among the myriad of shows that grace the stages of Broadway, there are always those that stand out for their boldness and daring. These productions have caused a stir, not just for their provocative themes but for their storytelling, performances, and their ability to challenge and redefine the boundaries of theatre. So, prepare yourself for a journey into the depths of human emotion, where you will encounter the sexiest Broadway shows of the current season. Get ready to feel your heart race, your cheeks flush, and your mind whirl. This is Broadway like you've never seen it before.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical: “There's a fire starting in my heart”
Moulin Rouge! The Musical is an adaptation of the beloved 2001 Baz Luhrmann film. The show made its Broadway debut in July 2019, setting the Al Hirschfeld Theatre ablaze with its glamour and romance. With a book by John Logan and direction by Alex Timbers, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is one of the highlights of the current Broadway season.
The show takes us to the heart of the Montmartre Quarter of Paris at the turn of the 20th century, a world of artists, writers, and performers where the bohemian ethos thrives. The show tells a love story set against a backdrop of beautiful sets and costumes that recreate the decadent world of the Moulin Rouge. The show creates an atmosphere of seduction and allure right from the beginning, with the iconic red windmill spinning above the audience, drawing them into a world where anything can happen.
The music, a blend of contemporary hits and classic tunes, further heightens the show's appeal. Songs from artists like Pink, Madonna, and Beyonce are skillfully woven into the narrative, adding a modern twist to the historical setting. The show's choreography is another standout element. From the tango to the can-can, the dance numbers are full of passion and vitality, bringing the audience on a thrilling journey of desire and heartbreak.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical has been met with resounding applause from both audiences and critics. Its unique blend of classic and contemporary elements, combined with its stunning visual appeal and compelling performances, make it a must-see.
Chicago: “Where the gin is cold, but the piano's hot”
A Broadway classic, Chicago originally debuted in 1975. With music by John Kander and Fred Ebb and choreography by Bob Fosse and Ann Reinking, Chicago has become a mainstay of Broadway. The story of two murderesses vying for the spotlight in 1920s Chicago, the show is a scintillating mixture of dark humor, jazz-age music, and sultry dance numbers.
Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, the show's two leading ladies, are as captivating as they are ruthless, using their charms to manipulate the world around them. The Fosse-inspired choreography adds another layer of sensuality with its smooth, stylized movements and iconic jazz hands. The show's minimalist approach to staging and costuming, typically featuring performers in sleek black ensembles, places the emphasis on the performers themselves, showcasing their talent and charisma.
The music of Chicago is another element that contributes to its appeal. Songs like "All That Jazz," "Cell Block Tango," and "Razzle Dazzle" are filled with innuendo and double entendre, their catchy melodies belied by their darkly humorous lyrics. The jazz-inspired score, with its brassy horns and slinky piano lines, perfectly captures the gritty glamour of the era.
Chicago has been a hit with audiences and critics alike since its original run, and its current revival, which has been running since 1996, shows no signs of slowing down. Audiences continue to be drawn to its compelling characters, toe-tapping music, and tantalizing choreography.
Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club: “Doesn't my body drive you wild with desire?”
Rounding out our list is the revival of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club, an immersive theatrical experience that brings you up close and personal with the hedonistic world of 1930s Berlin. Cabaret first premiered on Broadway in 1966 with music by John Kander and Fred Ebb, and it has been a celebrated part of the Broadway repertoire for decades. This latest revival, which originally debuted on London’s West End in 2021, takes the show's inherent sexiness to a whole new level.
Cabaret is set at the Kit Kat Club, a decadent club in pre-WWII Berlin. Here, the audience is not just watching a show; they are guests at the club, surrounded by the dancers and performers. This experience brings a palpable energy and intimacy to the show, making the audience feel part of the risqué action. The Kit Kat Girls and Boys, with their provocative costumes and flirtatious performances, add a layer of allure and fascination.
The show's music also contributes to its sexy appeal. With iconic numbers like "Willkommen" and "Don't Tell Mama," Cabaret delights with its blend of playful, cheeky songs and heartrending ballads. The choreography, often risqué and always dynamic, further heightens the show's seductive energy.
Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club has received positive reviews from both audiences and critics. The Guardian praised it as a "blinder of a show," while The New York Times commended the show for its performances and "spectacular staging." Audiences have been equally enthusiastic, praising the show's atmospheric setting, compelling performances, and powerful storytelling.
As we conclude this exploration of the sexiest Broadway shows of the current season, it becomes clear that the NYC theatre scene offers a range of experiences, each with its own unique appeal. They offer a chance to explore the complex narratives of desire, love, and passion, all while providing an unforgettable theatrical experience. So, why not take a chance and dive into the world of Broadway? Don't hesitate - grab your ticket, take your seat, and let Broadway set your stage on fire.