Moulin Rouge - Pigalle on Boulevard de Clichy

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Moulin Rouge Cabaret

 

The Moulin Rouge is a popular cabaret in the 18th arrondissement in Pigalle on Boulevard de Clichy, which is Paris’ red-light district. It was built by Joseph Oller in 1889. The red windmill installed on its roof is the Moulin Rouge’s distinctive architectural feature.

The cabaret is known as the birthplace of the contemporary version of the can-can dance. It was initially introduced as a very seductive form of dance by the Moulin Rouge’s beautiful courtesans to entertain male clients. The can-can dance became a massive hit, and it led to the establishment of other cabarets all over Europe.

Eventually, the performances caused public outrage when then became increasingly erotic and vulgar. However, when music hall entertainment gained popularity, the Moulin Rouge let go of the courtesans, and the place became a nightclub.

Drawing visitors from all over the globe, the Moulin Rouge is now one of Paris’ top tourist destinations.

It offers musical dance entertainment for adult audiences. The place’s character is very unique and it

still exudes turn-of-the-century French romance. The main feature at the Moulin Rouge is still the

can-can dance performance, but it is now more athletic and acrobatic than vulgar.

The Moulin Rouge has hosted performances from the entertainment industry’s brightest stars including Liza Minelli, Ella Fitzgerald, Elton John, La Toya Jackson, Josephine Baker, La Goulue, Yvette Guilbert, Frank Sinatra, Édith Piaf, Mistinguett, Jane Avril and Le Pétomane.