Boy George Makes a Bright Return to Broadway in 'Moulin Rouge'

In defiance of the typical rock star stereotype, Boy George is up and about well before lunchtime, especially now that he's performing nightly on Broadway. Departing from the 'rock n' roll' lifestyle, the Culture Club lead singer delivers a mix of music and fashion flair, dubbing it 'frock n' roll.' His passion for the arts is now channeled into his role as an impresario in the Tony Award-winning musical 'Moulin Rouge,' which will feature him until May 12.

The musical, which draws from the visually sumptuous 2001 film by Baz Luhrmann, celebrates a blend of contemporary pop and rock hits from artists like Katy Perry to the Rolling Stones and Elton John. For Boy George, this is a testament to the seamless integration of pop music within theatrical realms and vice versa.

Since his Broadway debut with 'Taboo' in 2004, Boy George has been an influential figure in the music and fashion industries. Now returning to the famed theatrical district, he feels the excitement of stepping into a vibrant and energetic production that differs markedly from spearheading his own music performances.

Despite the fame of Culture Club songs, Boy George admits he'd prefer to perform lesser-known tracks over signature hits like 'Do You Really Want to Hurt Me' and 'Karma Chameleon.' Nonetheless, there's a unique thrill in playing an extravagant nightclub owner in 'Moulin Rouge,' a role that already shines in the production without his contribution but one he aims to enhance with his presence.

Embracing the mix of classic and contemporary music in the show, Boy George speaks about the curiosity of younger audiences delving into the roots of modern tunes, an exploratory spirit he himself possesses. An inspiration for his music, Boy George has inked his skin with icons like Marc Bolan and David Bowie, acknowledging their influence in his work.

Regarding the creative process, Boy George likens it to rummaging through a pantry of ideas, combining different musical elements depending on his mood. He continues to write songs daily, dismissing the notion of writer's block with the belief that all the necessary words are already available for use.

In Boy George's world, melodies typically inspire lyrics, and he insists that once you have the message, the expression will follow. Having recently penned his memoir 'Karma,' Boy George reflects on his personal growth, embracing change and a kinder outlook towards himself and others, a perspective he once thought impossible.

Broadway, CultureClub, Musical