Farewell, chickens! You may know Moulin Rouge! The Musical is set to close the doors on its celebrated seven-year Broadway run on August 30th. But, as we all mourn its impending closing, did you also know there was one singular “sparkling diamond” who’s been performing in the show since the beginning?
We caught up with the indomitable Bahiyah Hibah, who’s can-canned in and out of the musical throughout its run, but is ultimately, at the time of closing, the only original ensemblist and longest-tenured cast member with the production. (She even obtained her culinary license and started her own cooking & wellness company during the course of the run!)
With a storied history on the stage, in productions that include The Color Purple (2005), Memphis, Evita, Chicago, On the Twentieth Century, and After Midnight, Hibah shared with us how her previous roles and training informed her work on this show, what it takes to sustain a long run, and how she thinks this “spectacular, spectacular” musical has changed the face of Broadway forever.
Take a look below... because you can can can!
Can you talk a bit about your background and your personal path to Moulin Rouge! The Musical? What led you here? How did your previous work inform what you do in the show, if at all?
I was initially ballet-trained and had a long career in concert dance. I then transitioned into musical theater after the birth of my son in 2004. [In regard to the show,] Moulin Rouge! The Musical sounded like an exciting project, especially given the iconic music from the film. And then, of course, all my ballet training is essential for this show; the intense partnering and specific movement style require a strong technical foundation… especially while performing in three-inch boots. (Laughs).
What drew you to Moulin Rouge! The Musical specifically? Why or how did you know this one was “the one” to do?
For one, the movie was incredibly memorable for me. Additionally, having Sonya Tayeh as the choreographer was a huge draw; I had been an admirer of her work since watching her on So You Think You Can Dance.
Why have you stayed with this show so long? What’s the “special sauce,” if you will, that this show has for you?
The pandemic made me lose track of time; by the time we returned [from lockdown] and found our rhythm again, seven years had passed.
What’s kept me with it? On a personal level, the show is a technical dancer’s dream. It allows me to use my training at the highest level and stay in peak physical condition, which is a total life hack. It is rare to find a profession that consistently demands—and rewards—that level of expertise.
Why do you think audiences are drawn to Moulin Rouge! the Musical?
It is pure fun. The visuals [are] stunning, the cast is immensely talented, and the music is universal—everyone hears a song they love.
How does the familiarity of the pop catalogue and celebrity crossovers, like Megan Thee Stallion or Bob the Drag Queen, for example, help the production – and, perhaps, on a wider scale, the industry at large?
It’s vital for theater to have national exposure to show a broader audience what is possible on stage. It helps reach new demographics and promotes representation of all shapes, sizes, and ethnicities. But while the “celebrity draw” is a reality of the current industry to drive ticket sales, it is important that the talent remains equipped to handle the unique demands of the Broadway stage.
In the same vein, can you speak about the integration of pop music throughout your show? Do you think the familiar pop catalogue makes the show more digestible for a modern audience?
Absolutely! The music is identifiable and creates an immediate connection. People feel connected to songs that exist in their lives outside of the theater, making the story more relatable. It’s great!
Similarly, what is it like to perform a “pop catalogue” in a show versus performing in a traditional musical with original music and lyrics?
It is equally fun. [With this show], I love dancing to songs I grew up listening to as well as modern hits that I enjoy personally.
In the spirit of the show, if you could add one more song from the pop catalogue to the production, what would it be?
“Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars. No question. I always thought it would be perfect for the horn section in the opening. I really wish we had the rights for that one!
As someone who’s been with the show for as long as you have, what’s it been like to adjust to the revolving door of performers that have come in and out over the years?
As an artist, I am very sensitive to the new energy and pacing that new energy leads bring to the building. [As the mainstays], we often have to be the ones to adjust and accommodate these visiting artists to maintain the show’s tone. While it’s not always easy, I do understand that this formula is currently used to attract different demographics and sustain ticket sales.
After seven years with Moulin Rouge! The Musical, what can you say is the key to sustaining a long-running show?
Consistent maintenance of my “physical vessel” is paramount. You cannot perform eight shows a week without being incredibly disciplined about recovery.
Speaking for yourself, what are three things that have helped you sustain this run?
1. Physical maintenance and recovery; 2. Taking time off when needed to allow the body to heal from a grueling schedule; 3. Fueling myself with nutrition that supports the high-level athlete I have to be every day.
How has Moulin Rouge! The Musical changed you personally? What have you learned about yourself throughout your time without the show?
I have learned to value stillness and quiet. The show is highly stimulating, and the preparation and commute can be taxing on the nervous system. I’ve learned I need that balance.
On a greater scale, how do you feel Moulin Rouge! The Musical has changed Broadway?
Initially, it proved a show could succeed based on the sheer artistry of a cast that wasn’t necessarily “celebrity heavy.” However, it has since embraced the trend of using influencers or celebrities to drive the box office, which has certainly influenced the current Broadway landscape.
What do you hope audiences take away from this production?
I hope they are moved by the storytelling and the energy of the performers. Most importantly, I hope they leave with a deeper appreciation for artists, especially so that art can continue to be recognized as a tool for healing and education.
Finally, as Zidler says in the show, the Moulin Rouge “is more than a nightclub. The Moulin Rouge is a state of mind.” As you reflect on the end of an era, what defines the Moulin Rouge for you?
It is indeed a state of mind... a refuge... a sanctuary... a portal we all get to pass through every night as performers. I hope [it] is experienced by those who come to be transported to a world of wonder, mystery, beauty and respite... if not for just a moment!
Thumbnail photo courtesy of Aperture Public Relations
Moulin Rouge! The Musical continues at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre (302 W. 45th Street) through August 30, 2026. For tickets and/or more information, click here.
