Moulin Rouge Paris history: The cabaret that defined Parisian culture since 1889

A symbol of French culture, an emblem of the city’s vibrant nightlife, and a place where art, music, and dance have always converged in dazzling performances, Moulin Rouge Paris has, for more than a century, has attracted artists, performers and tourists from all over the world, becoming an international cultural icon. But how did this humble cabaret rise to such fame?

Let's take a step back in time and explore its fascinating story.

A quick timeline of Moulin Rouge Paris history

• 1889: Founded by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler, the Moulin Rouge opens its doors, introducing the world to the modern can-can dance.
• 1915: The original venue is destroyed by fire, closing for 10 years.
• 1925: The Moulin Rouge reopens, marking the beginning of its second golden age.
• 1940s: The cabaret survives World War II under German occupation and emerges as a symbol of post-war Parisian life.
• 1950s–1960s: Under new management, Moulin Rouge Paris thrives again, attracting international stars and introducing modern performances like aquatic ballets.
• 2001: The Moulin Rouge is immortalized in Baz Luhrmann’s film Moulin Rouge!, sparking renewed interest in its legacy.
• Present Day: The venue continues to dazzle audiences with its energetic performances, maintaining its reputation as a Parisian treasure.

Tragedy strikes, but Moulin Rouge Paris rises again (1915–1925)

In 1915, disaster struck the Moulin Rouge when a devastating fire destroyed the original building. For 10 years, the venue was closed, and its future seemed uncertain. The Moulin Rouge had been a central part of Parisian life, but now, its fate hung in the balance.

Would the world still remember the cabaret, or had it seen its last performance?

Rebuilding and rebirth

After a decade of uncertainty, the Moulin Rouge reopened in 1925, completely rebuilt and more grandiose than before. The 1920s marked a new era for the cabaret, one that embraced modernity while maintaining its iconic charm. This period saw the rise of Mistinguett, one of France's most beloved singers and dancers. Her performances brought new energy to the cabaret, drawing large crowds and restoring its place at the heart of Parisian nightlife. The Moulin Rouge also embraced American revues, bringing a touch of jazz and international flair to the stage.

Having emerged from the ashes, the Moulin Rouge was once again thriving. But as time passed, would it be able to survive through the looming threat of war, or would it be lost to history?

A resurgence of fame (1950s–1980s)

In the 1950s, Moulin Rouge Paris came under new ownership, leading to extensive renovations that modernized its look while retaining its charm. While the iconic can-can remained a staple, new acts and international stars like Luis Mariano and Josephine Baker brought fresh energy.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the cabaret experimented with innovative performances, such as aquatic ballets, blending classical dance with modern spectacle. These changes helped maintain the Moulin Rouge's relevance, but the shifting entertainment landscape raised the question:

Could it continue to thrive as the world evolved?