The one and only symbol of Paris is, of course, the Eiffel Tower. I would say the tower is the official symbol, the one you can take a picture of, climb or simply stare at regardless of your morals and views on life.
However, to catch the real sensation of Paris, including its history, the way Parisians lived and entertained around 100 years ago, the real symbol you must visit is the unbelievable Moulin Rouge.
There are a lot of sites to visit in Paris, the Louvre, the Versailles Palace, and so on, but Moulin Rouge is the extravagant show, which differs from all those historical and cultural details (which are often very boring if presented incorrectly). In a word, you will see it now yourself.
The 21st century could not pass by the best traditions of Paris and not to damage them to some extent. Despite this, the journey of Moulin Rouge is so powerful that it will take very long to ruin its reputation. Let’s start with the best things about this cabaret.
Its history starts in October, 1889. This is when two men (obviously fans of women and champagne) opened the dance theater, which had a future of the most famous cabaret in the world. These men were Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler. They called it Le Premier Palais des Femmes, i.e. The First Women Palace. It was meant to be a so-called temple of music and dance, which it did become (with some minor modifications).
Because of the nudity of dancers, it has many times been a topic for controversy. Over the time, it became more and more natural. As they say, even now dancers of Moulin Rouge are as flexible as their morals. This pretty much sums it up.
Now, you can enjoy fantastic dinner and watch the colorful performance at the same time. There are 5 menus you can order your dinner from: Toulouse-Lautrec (in honor of French painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, a patron of Moulin Rouge), Belle Epoque, A La Carte, Vegetarian, and Vegan.
Moulin Rouge mainly consists of four parts, each of which is meant for special activities: the Champagne Bar, the Central (where concerts take place), the Chaufferie (includes a dance floor) and a Terrace (where people gather before the show).
There are tickets combining a dinner at Moulin Rouge and a tour through Paris after dark (this is when you understand why Paris is often called “the city of lights”).
Moulin Rouge has had a big number of shows during the years of its existence. They changed annually, each bringing something new and fresh to the table. The show you can witness today is called Feerie Show. It unites around 100 dancers and 1000 terrific and flashy costumes. The show includes dances from all corners of the world, presented in French style, of course.
Besides nude dancers, you can also see impressive acrobatics, which, together with shiny decorations, bring the atmosphere of a circus. And finally, the last and the most powerful note, the signature of Moulin Rouge, the French Cancan sums up the show. There will a couple of other surprises during the performance, but let them be secret for you now. You can discover them yourself.
As I already mentioned before, the Red Mill couldn’t keep it’s essence and originality in the 21st century, where people work all day and night to make the most beautiful creations profitable, commercial, and in the most negative way, popular.
First, you have to book your table at least a week earlier. Don’t wait until last minute, or you’ll be left outside the show. Tourists, tourists and tourists all around you! This is what irritates most people who don’t go to Moulin Rouge just for the name or the fact that it’s considered one of the best attractions in Paris. When these people go to cabaret, they intend to have fun, to watch the dances and get the most out of it.
This is why you should get acquainted with the history of cabaret, its dancers, find at least some basic information about the French Cancan. Believe me, it will only help you enjoy the show and this romantic city. Additionally, you might also want to find out for yourself what a cabaret is. It might not be suitable for people with very strict morals and religious views. After all, you don’t want to pay a good deal and leave the show after ten minutes.
Next, I would love to bring the gone times back, when Moulin Rouge was visited mainly by men, who came to watch the courtesans. Those times where probably the best in regard of the style and essence of the cabaret. Now, the Red Mill attracts too many tourists who don’t really understand the beauty of the place.
Another thing that might disappoint some tourists but made me very glad is that photography is prohibited during the shows and inside the building, in general. This will make you crave for coming back more and more. And truly, photos will hardly communicate the exact same feelings you get during the show.
Despite the ticket prices, which are usually considered too high, Moulin Rouge is one of the best places in Paris. It’s the culmination of this romantic city and the gemstone of the Parisian life. If you feel you need more inspiration before your visit, Baz Luhrmann’s “Moulin Rouge” (2001) is just what you need. All your imagination and readiness to have real fun is waiting for you in the magical . . . Moulin Rouge.
