- Updated: 19.10.2024
Cabaret of Paris
Paris is renowned for its vibrant cabaret scene, especially with iconic venues like the Moulin Rouge, Lido de Paris, and Crazy Horse. These places offer spectacular performances featuring dazzling costumes, talented dancers, live music, and mesmerizing shows.
The History of Cabaret of Paris
The cabaret scene in Paris! It's a tale woven with glamour, artistry, and a touch of rebellion. Cabarets emerged in the late 19th century as intimate venues where artists, singers, dancers, and poets gathered to showcase their talents. Paris became the epicenter of this movement, hosting some of the most renowned and innovative cabarets in the world.
One of the earliest and most famous cabarets was the Chat Noir, opened in Montmartre in 1881. Founded by Rodolphe Salis, it became a hub for avant-garde artists, writers, and performers. Its bohemian atmosphere and eclectic entertainment, including music, poetry readings, and shadow puppetry, attracted a diverse audience.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Montmartre, with its vibrant artistic community, became synonymous with cabaret culture. The Moulin Rouge, established in 1889, is perhaps the most iconic cabaret of that era. Known for its extravagant shows featuring can-can dancers, elaborate costumes, and innovative performances, it epitomized the spirit of Parisian nightlife and entertainment.
Another significant cabaret, the Folies-Bergère, opened its doors in 1869 and became celebrated for its spectacular revues, blending music, dance, comedy, and daring performances. It was a symbol of the Belle Epoque's exuberance and showcased many famous entertainers.
The cabaret scene in Paris wasn't merely about entertainment; it was also a platform for social commentary and artistic expression. Artists like Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, known for his depictions of cabaret life, immortalized the ambiance and characters in their works.
During the early 20th century, cabarets continued to flourish, albeit facing challenges such as censorship and societal changes. World War I and II brought disruptions, but the spirit of cabaret endured. Post-war, cabarets like the Crazy Horse and Lido gained prominence, evolving their shows to suit modern tastes while still preserving the essence of cabaret performance.
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• Moulin Rouge - The most famous cabaret in Paris, Moulin Rouge offers a spectacular show with dazzling costumes, music, and performances. It's advisable to book tickets in advance due to its popularity.
You can buy tickets directly on the official website
82 Boulevard de Clichy, Paris 18th, Google Map
Metro: Blanche
• Crazy Horse Paris - This cabaret is famous for its artistic and sophisticated shows that often focus on light and visual effects, creating a unique and sensual experience. Located in one of the richest areas of Paris, in the 16th arrondissement, not far from the iconic Eiffel Tower and nearby 5-star luxury hotel Hotel Plaza Athenee - Dorchester Collection.
You can buy tickets directly on the official website
12 Avenue George V, Paris 16th, Google Map
Metro: Alma-Marceau
• Le Paradis Latin - a historic cabaret dating back to the 19th century, it offers traditional yet innovative performances in a beautiful setting. Located in famous Latin Quarter area.
You can buy tickets directly on the official website
28 rue Cardinal Lemoine, Paris 5, Google Map
Metro: Cardinal-Lemoine
• Lido de Paris - another iconic venue known for its extravagant shows featuring talented dancers, singers, and special effects. The performances here are often grand and lavish. Located on Champs-Elysees, nearby 5-star luxury hotel Hotel Barriere Fouquet's Paris.
You can buy tickets directly on the official website
116 Av. des Champs-Elysees, Paris 8, Google Map
Metro: George V
• Au Lapin Agile - a more intimate and cozy cabaret, it has a historic ambiance and showcases local talent, including singers and comedians.
You can buy tickets directly on the official website
22 rue des Saules, Paris 8, Google Map
Metro: Lamarck Caulaincourt
• Chez Michou is a renowned cabaret located in the Montmartre area. It's famous for its lively atmosphere and entertainment. The cabaret has been a significant part of Parisian nightlife for decades, known for its vibrant shows featuring talented artists impersonating famous celebrities, particularly divas like Édith Piaf, Marilyn Monroe, and more.
You can buy tickets directly on the official website (french language)
80 rue des Martyrs, Paris 18, Google Map
Metro: Pigalle/Les Abbesses
Today, while the heyday of cabaret might be seen as a bygone era, Parisian cabarets persist, offering a mix of traditional revues and contemporary performances. These venues keep alive the legacy of artistic freedom, creativity, and entertainment that defined the golden age of cabaret in Paris. Prices for the show are different, 30€, 80€, 150€, depending on whether there is a menu and what is included
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