A place of dreams and magic, the Moulin Rouge never ceases to captivate and mystify.
In this place where feathers and glitter reign supreme, the artists perform every evening to offer a memorable show to an audience eager for magic. But what are the secrets that fuel this preserved success? We invite you to discover the backstage of this temple of illusion.
It is an emblematic institution, a place that we recognize wherever we are: the Moulin Rouge. Behind its facade decorated with a mill with large red propellers, hides a universe out of time, where a small army of enthusiasts deals.
Like artisans of the wonderful, the Moulin Rouge teams have worked tirelessly for 135 years to offer shows that live up to the reputation of this legendary cabaret. Every night, Féérie, performed twice, brings together 60 dancers on stage, but behind the scenes, many others contribute to the magic of the place.
In total, 450 people strive to maintain the prestige of the Moulin Rouge. In addition to the dancers, members of the brigade and the kitchen, a team of 40 craftsmen makes and repairs daily the sumptuous costumes worn by the artists. Three Maisons d’Art are dedicated to this task, each specializing in a particular aspect of costume design: Maison Clairvoy for shoes, Maison Février for feathers and Atelier Valentin for sparkling embroideries.
Coordination is essential in this universe where every gesture is carefully calculated. Every day, the seamstresses come into action from 8 am to inspect and repair the costumes, while the plumassiers and the bootmaker ensure the good condition of the accessories and shoes. Rehearsals and dance classes, provided by the artistic director, also punctuate the daily life of the dancers.
At the Moulin Rouge, freedom is a key word. Dancers have carte blanche for their makeup, as long as they wear false eyelashes and red lipstick. The main thing is to be ready to shine on stage at 9 pm to delight the audience.
This cabaret, often associated with entertainment for adults, also opens its doors to children from the age of 6, offering them enchanting shows adapted to their age.
Despite its deep roots in French culture, the Moulin Rouge welcomes artists from around the world. The 90 dancers come from 18 different countries, offering a show of unique cultural diversity.
And for a touch of originality, did you know that the Moulin Rouge is the largest private consumer of champagne, with 260,000 bottles open each year? A sparkling anecdote to accompany an equally sparkling show.
Thus, between tradition and modernity, the Moulin Rouge continues to shine the eyes and hearts, perpetuating the legacy of a legendary place with timeless charm.
Le Moulin Rouge – 8 Bd Clichy, 78018, Paris – 01 53 09 82 82
Unusual night in the red mill
A poster of the famous cabaret, curtains and fire red sconces for the burlesque atmosphere and the detail of a wing of the mill that can be seen. This romantic room gives the illusion that the dancers will suddenly appear to perform the famous “French Cancan”. Discover the «Moulin Rouge» rooms for a unique moment in a romantic hotel in Paris near the Moulin Rouge.
Hôtel Secret De Paris – 2 Rue De Parme, 75009, Paris – 01 53 16 33
