‘Moulin Rouge! The Musical’ Hits Austin: An Interview with Touring Star Andrew Brewer
As the national tour rolls into Bass Concert Hall, the actor who plays the show’s villain opens up about the power of pop music on stage
Actor Andrew Brewer is bringing his dynamic performance to Bass Concert Hall from May 14-25 as part of the Broadway in Austin national tour of “Moulin Rouge! The Musical.” Known for his role as the show’s Duke of Monroth, Brewer shares insights into the joy, challenges and inspiration behind performing in this high-energy, showstopping production that’s based on Baz Luhrmann’s beloved 2001 film. With over 1,000 performances under his belt, he reflects on keeping the show fresh and connecting with audiences. Ahead of the Austin run, Brewer spoke with TRIBEZA about what makes this production so special.
How do you like playing the show’s antagonist?
Andrew Brewer: It’s a lot of fun. There’s something about driving the show in a different way, getting to subvert things a little. We talk a lot in rehearsal about how he’s not exactly a villain—while he is, in a way.
There’s a quote I love: ‘There are no bad people, just good people who make bad decisions.’ That’s how I try to play him. I try to avoid the ‘turn to the dark side’ as long as possible. It’s like a game—how long can I keep the audience on my side before I push them away?
You’ve been with the show since January 2022. How does it stay fresh for you?
AB: I’ve never had the perfect show. I hit 1,000 performances a few weeks ago, and there’s always something to improve—timing of a joke, emotion in a scene, moments that could connect better with the audience. That pursuit keeps it fun.
And it’s a great show. Even though I play the bad guy, so much joy is built in.
I get to watch a lot from my track—opposite the ensemble—and enjoy the dancing, lights, and sound. It never really gets old.
You mentioned enjoying watching the show from backstage. What’s your favorite moment to watch, and also your favorite moment to perform?
AB: My favorite to watch changes every few months. The beginning of Act 2—our big dance opening—is amazing. The number, “Backstage Romance,” has incredible choreography, lights and music.
As for performing, I have the coolest entrance I’ve ever had—or probably ever will have. Technically impressive, plus the song is another needle drop from my college years. Every night, the spotlights hit and zoom in—it’s hard not to feel like the coolest guy in the house.
At the end of the show, we sing “Come What May,” the song Christian wrote for Satine. Alex, our director, talked about giving all our joy and love to the audience in that moment. I’m kind of hidden in the back—bad guy singing the love song—but I get to have this moment of checking in with myself.
I stand in front of 2,000 people and just take it in. It’s different every night—that’s what makes theater so magical.
You already touched on this, but what do you hope audiences walk away feeling after seeing “Moulin Rouge! The Musical”?
AB: Joy. That’s the biggest takeaway.
It’s an over-the-top extravaganza, but at its heart is a love triangle and our Bohemian values: truth, beauty, freedom, and love.
Growing up in a small town in Indiana, theater wasn’t a big part of life. My parents worked multiple jobs, so going to the theater was a special moment away. That’s what I hope audiences feel—an escape, a few hours of joy and fun, a break from the everyday.
How do you feel about the show’s use of pop music?
AB: That non-traditional approach—I love it.
It makes for a cool experience because the audience brings their own memories and feelings to the songs. We get to play with that, and also sometimes subvert it.
I never imagined I’d be on stage singing a Rihanna song in a musical. But singing familiar lyrics in a new way gives them a different meaning. It’s such a unique opportunity.
There are so many songs in the show—from the movie, and new ones too. The “Elephant Love Medley” is expanded for the musical. You fall in love with Christian and Satine along with these songs.
We can’t wait to see the show in Austin. Are there any cities you’re especially looking forward to visiting?
AB: We’re doing a nice Texas stretch: Austin, Fort Worth and San Antonio. I’ve always had fun in those cities.
See “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” in Austin from May 14 – 25th. Get tickets and more info at texasperformingarts.org.
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