Podcast Summary: "What's going on with BURLESQUE? | The truth behind the West End musical backstage drama rumours"

Episode Details:

• Title: What's going on with BURLESQUE? | The truth behind the West End musical backstage drama rumours
• Host: MickeyJoTheatre (Mickey Jo)
• Release Date: July 23, 2025
• Platform: Acast

Introduction

In this compelling episode, Mickey Jo delves deep into the tumultuous developments surrounding the West End production of Burlesque the musical. As backstage rumors swirl, Mickey Jo aims to uncover the truth behind the drama, providing listeners with an insider's perspective on the production's challenges and controversies.

Overview of Burlesque the Musical

Burlesque is a stage adaptation of the 2010 film starring Christina Aguilera and Cher. The musical premiered at the Manchester Opera House in June 2024, followed by runs in Glasgow and a return to Manchester. Its regional success paved the way for a highly anticipated West End transfer to the Savoy Theatre.

Mickey Jo sets the stage for the episode by reflecting on his upcoming review:

“As I sit here right now, the official opening night performance of the musical at the Savoy Theatre in the West End is about 18 and a half hours away... Within 24 hours mine ought to be joining them.” [01:27]

Production History and Creative Team Changes

Initially, Burlesque was directed by Nick Winston with choreography by Robin Antin. However, significant shifts occurred leading up to the West End transfer:

• Departures: During the regional run, a producer from Adama left the production company entirely. Additionally, Nick Winston unfollowed the cast on social media, signaling a rift.
• Leadership Shift: Todrick Hall stepped into the roles of director and choreographer, managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

Mickey Jo elaborates on these changes:

“Todrick Hall himself, now wearing four different hats, that is writer, director, actor, and choreographer. And I may be no milliner, but that's an awful lot of hats.” [07:45]

Cast Changes and Rehearsal Challenges

The transition to the West End saw significant cast alterations:

• Original Cast Departure: Jackie Burns, who originally played Cher, returned to the US to star in Grizabella.
• New Cast Members: Broadway star Orfeh took over the role of Cher, alongside new members like Jess Foley as Christina and Todrick Hall as Stanley Tucci.

Rehearsals were marred by delays and technical issues:

• Costume Problems: Reports indicated unfinished costumes, leading cast members to purchase attire from Primark.
• Extended Previews: A Reddit user recounted a preview performance that ran three hours long, deviating from the advertised two hours and 25 minutes.

Mickey Jo shares a firsthand account from social media:

“Once I entered the theatre we were basically sat waiting for what felt like forever... the musical itself didn't end till about 11:15.” [12:15]

Public Reactions and Controversies

The production faced backlash on various fronts:

• Song Exclusion: The notable song "You Haven't Seen The Last of Me" by Diane Warren was initially omitted from the previews, sparking disappointment among fans and prompting Diane Warren to voice her frustration on Instagram.

  Mickey Jo highlights the controversy:

  “When asked why would you cut the best and biggest song from the show? Diane replied, um, haha, right... the same guy who hated it and tried to take it out of the movie, Steve Antin...” [15:30]

• Equity Involvement: The actors' union, Equity, intervened due to concerns over working hours, conditions, and costume issues. An article by Matt Hemley emphasized these concerns, noting that Equity is actively engaging with both the cast and producers.

  Mickey Jo references the news:

  “Equity is engaging with both its members and the producers after concerns were raised... some of the production's costumes were not ready.” [20:14]

Responses from Key Figures

Stephen Antin, the writer and producer, publicly addressed the controversies:

“Hi there and thank you for the article! ❤️ Just a friendly correction. Diane Warren's song 'Last of Me' is in the show...” [22:05]

Diane Warren initially expressed disappointment over the song's exclusion but later, reports indicate that "Last of Me" has been reinstated into the musical.

Mickey Jo speculates on the motives behind the song's removal and reinstatement:

“I do believe that that is the Savoy availability instead of the Peacock run... I think that it's no longer the plan and we are going to hear the song after all, which I think is ultimately for the best.” [17:20]

Equity's Involvement and Ongoing Investigations

Equity's intervention underscores deeper issues within the production:

• Working Conditions: Reports suggest that performers are working unpaid overtime and facing delays due to incomplete costumes.
• Support for Performers: Equity remains a staunch ally for the actors, ensuring their working conditions improve.

Mickey Jo emphasizes the importance of these developments:

“Equity is engaging with both members and the producers over a number of issues that have been raised.” [20:20]

Anticipation for Opening Night and Reviews

With the drama unfolding behind the scenes, all eyes are now on the official opening night and the subsequent reviews from major publications. Mickey Jo plans to attend the performance and share his own critique within 24 hours.

“Soon enough we will all have the answer. Make sure you turn on notifications so you don't miss that review.” [08:05]

Conclusion

This episode of MickeyJoTheatre offers an in-depth look into the challenges faced by the West End production of Burlesque. From creative team upheavals and cast changes to public controversies and union interventions, the musical's journey to the Savoy Theatre has been anything but smooth. As audiences await the official opening and reviews, Mickey Jo remains committed to uncovering the truth and keeping theatre enthusiasts informed.

Notable Quotes:

• Mickey Jo: “What the hell is going on backstage at Burlesque?” [01:50]
• Mickey Jo: “When any show is creating these kinds of conversations, this isn't to be the last time I'm talking about it.” [06:35]
• Mickey Jo: “As I said, I believe that there is more to emerge on that front.” [25:00]

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