Located on the world-famous Boulevard de Clichy, this cabaret venue has been entertaining audiences since 1889. From its humble beginnings as a working class dance hall to its current status as an internationally renowned entertainment destination, it’s no surprise that The Moulin Rouge continues to be a must-see attraction for travellers visiting Paris.
At the beginning of the 19th century, Montmartre was home to many struggling artists who frequented local cafés and bars searching for inspiration. One such establishment was Le Grand Guignol, which opened its doors in 1892 and soon became known throughout Europe as “the temple of laughter” due to its risqué performances featuring dancers, singers, acrobats, and clowns. In 1900, the building was sold to Charles Zidler and Joseph Oller who transformed it into what we now know today as The Moulin Rouge – one of the oldest cabarets in Paris with a long history steeped in glamour and excess.
Since then, The Moulin Rouge has hosted some of France’s most celebrated performers, including Edith Piaf (who sang her famous song ‘La Vie en Rose’ here), Liza Minnelli (who starred in Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 film adaptation) and even Salvador Dalí (who designed costumes for their show). Today, visitors can experience classic French cancan dances alongside modern music acts set against lavish sets filled with vibrant colours – making it easy to see why people are drawn back time after time.
The interior décor at The Moulin Rouge also pays homage to its past; you’ll find red velvet couches lining walls adorned with vintage posters depicting scenes from shows gone by, while giant windmills adorn either side of the stage – paying tribute to where this venue got its name from.
