Christina Aguilera reveals three actors to star as Ali Rose in BURLESQUE THE MUSICAL
Burlesque and Christina Aguilera today introduce the three young women stepping into the spotlight as Ali Rose, one of the most coveted leading stage roles of the summer in Burlesque the Musical.
Sharing the iconic role of the waitress-turned-burlesque performer, created by Christina in the 2010 Golden Globe-winning and Best Picture-nominated Hollywood movie, written and directed by Steven Antin, are Natalia Jacques, 23, and Gracie O’Brien, 20, from the UK, and American Cecilia Petrush, aged 25, who was cast after a global talent search.
Three women. One spotlight. For the first time ever THREE new stars step into the world of Burlesque as Ali Rose.
Writer/Producer Steven Antin said: “I wrote Ali for Christina - she was always my dream to play the role. When Christina brought Ali to life in the film, she created something truly iconic. She gave Ali her voice, her fire, her wit, her vulnerability, and her soul - creating a character audiences around the world fell in love with. Bringing Burlesque from screen to stage is about honouring that legacy while allowing the story to grow in a theatrical, cinematic and emotional way. And now these three exceptional, talented actresses step into those heels - not to imitate Christina, because no one could or should - but to continue the legacy she began and bring their own fabulous magic to Ali.”
Natalia Jacques, a recent graduate making her professional stage debut, will portray Ali in the West End production.
Gracie O’Brien, also making her professional stage debut, will be heading the 33-week UK tour from July.
Cecilia Petrush from Brooklyn, New York, who dazzled producers during a global talent search, will be the alternate Ali.
After a 100% sold-out, critically acclaimed West End run last year at the Savoy Theatre, Burlesque the Musical returns to London this September at the new West End venue The Arts at Marble Arch.
Over the next two years, more than 500,000 people are expected to attend performances at The Arts at Marble Arch, while a second production launches a major UK tour beginning at New Victoria Theatre, Woking on 25 July, before touring throughout 2026 and 2027. Additional international productions will be announced soon.
Featuring songs by Christina Aguilera, Sia, Diane Warren, Jess Folley, Todrick Hall, and Steven Antin, Burlesque the Musical is a scintillating celebration of self-discovery, empowerment, and unapologetic fabulousness.
Further casting and creative team announcements will follow soon.
To book tickets for Burlesque the Musical in London, please click here.