Engross yourself in the glamor, mystique, history and luxury of the Moulin Rouge. Indulge in a traditional menu of fine French food before the curtain rises and a spectacular display of music and dance begins.
Visit the home of the French cancan dance which features chorus lines of women doing high kicks in bustling skirts. Opened in 1889 by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler, the Moulin Rouge was nicknamed the “palace of women.”
The theater embodied the optimistic Belle Époque movement spreading across Europe and provided a place where people from all walks of life could interact and experience an extravagant, risqué kind of entertainment. In more recent times, Ray Charles, Charles Aznavour and Elton John have performed here for special events. The nightly shows still focus on scantily clad women dancing. Bring children as young as 6 years old to the performances, according to your personal taste.
Enter beneath the famous red windmill, the “moulin rouge,” and proceed to the lavish auditorium. Take your seat beneath the billowing pinstripe ceiling and enjoy a multi-course candle-lit meal. While you eat, admire glamorous billboard covers from shows past adorning the walls.
With dessert finished, turn your attention to the stage. As the crowd slowly gathers, notice the gorgeous red velvet décor and spiraling golden motifs that flank the performance area.
When silence falls and the lights dim, sit back and enjoy the spectacular performance happening just a few feet from your table. Shows change every few weeks however, they are always a phenomenon of dance and song accompanied by handmade costumes of feathers, glistening sequins and rhinestones.
The Moulin Rouge is in the Montmartre area in the center of Paris. Although this is the city’s red-light district, the bustling crowd of visitors here late into the evening keeps the atmosphere relaxed and friendly. The Moulin Rouge is open nightly with dinner served before two shows take place. Buy tickets in person or book online in advance to avoid disappointment. Dress elegantly you will not be allowed in wearing shorts or sneakers.
