Cabaret Moulin Rouge, Paris

Moulin Rouge is a cabaret in Paris, France, notable for the red windmill on its roof—“Moulin Rouge” translates from French as “red mill.” It is located at the foot of Montmartre hill, on Boulevard de Clichy, within the city’s historic entertainment district.

The cabaret was established in 1889, the same year as the opening of the Eiffel Tower, during the period of the Exposition Universelle. Throughout its history, Moulin Rouge was closed only briefly between 1915 and 1921, due to fire damage and World War I. Since 1921, the cabaret has operated almost continuously.

The main hall of Moulin Rouge has a seating capacity of 850. Its interior combines elements of antique and modern styles. Performances are held daily, with two shows at 21:00 and 23:00, each lasting approximately two hours without intermission. The cabaret operates as a dinner theater, where guests are seated at tables and served meals prepared by professional chefs.

Moulin Rouge is particularly known for the French cancan, a dance that originated at the cabaret. In addition to cancan performances, shows include a variety of theatrical and musical acts. The current revue, “Féerie”, has been running since 1999 and features around 80 performers and about 1,000 costumes. The cabaret is also often credited as the first venue to present striptease, in 1893.

Visiting Moulin Rouge:

• Show tickets with half a bottle of champagne start from about 130 EUR.
• Dinner and show packages start from about 225 EUR per person.
• The cabaret remains a prominent cultural and tourist attraction, drawing visitors interested in French entertainment history.

Moulin Rouge has influenced literature, film, and visual arts, becoming a symbol of Parisian nightlife. Its image, particularly the red windmill, has appeared in numerous films and artworks, cementing its status as an enduring cultural landmark.