What Is a Cabaret in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

Paris is known as the city of love, lights, and fashion. It is also famous for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene.

One of the most popular forms of entertainment in Paris is cabaret. But what exactly is a cabaret?

What is Cabaret?

Cabaret is a form of live entertainment that originated in France in the late 19th century. It is a type of variety show that combines music, dance, comedy, and drama. Cabarets are usually performed in small venues with intimate settings.

The History of Cabaret

The first cabarets were established in Paris during the Belle Époque era in the late 1800s. They were initially created as a space for artists to perform their work without censorship or restriction. The word “cabaret” comes from the French word “cabaret,” which means “tavern.”

During the early years, cabarets were known for their risqué performances that often included nudity and sexual themes. However, over time, they evolved into more sophisticated shows featuring well-known singers, dancers, and comedians.

What to Expect at a Cabaret Show

A typical cabaret show in Paris lasts around two hours and includes multiple acts performed by various artists. The performers usually wear flamboyant costumes and use elaborate props to enhance their performances.

The shows are interactive experiences where audiences are encouraged to participate by clapping along or singing along with the performers. Some of the most popular cabarets in Paris include Moulin Rouge, Lido de Paris, and Crazy Horse.

Moulin Rouge

Moulin Rouge is one of the most famous cabarets in Paris. It was established in 1889 and has been entertaining audiences for over 130 years. The show features cancan dancers adorned in sequins and feathers along with other performances.

Lido de Paris

Lido de Paris is a cabaret that has been running since 1946. It is known for its elaborate stage productions that often include water features and special effects. The show features dancers, singers, and acrobats.

Crazy Horse

Crazy Horse is a smaller cabaret compared to Moulin Rouge and Lido de Paris. It is known for its erotic shows featuring female dancers in minimal clothing. The performers use lighting and choreography to create stunning visual effects.

Conclusion

Cabaret is an important part of Parisian culture and entertainment scene. From risqué performances to sophisticated shows, cabarets have come a long way since their inception in the late 19th century. If you are planning to visit Paris, make sure to catch a cabaret show for an unforgettable experience filled with music, dance, and drama!