Cabaret in Paris: A Guide to the Best Shows, from Moulin Rouge to Crazy Horse

Moulin Rouge, Paradis Latin, Crazy Horse: who hasn't heard of these iconic cabarets in Paris? With their uniqueness, the famous can-can, historic performances, and bold choreography, they offer incredible evenings filled with sparkling lights, sensuality, and fun. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are also smaller cabarets offering equally engaging shows. From history to contemporary glamour, cabaret in Paris is a whole world to explore.

The cabarets of Paris are the beating heart of Parisian entertainment, with a tradition of lights and music that continues to enchant audiences. Between the legendary Féerie at the Moulin Rouge and the more daring Totally Crazy! at Paradis Latin, you can also find more intimate and accessible cabaret shows. A journey through its stages means taking a leap into the Paris of the past, filled with historic revues and artistic impressions, always with a touch of transgression.

Who doesn't dream of entering the Moulin Rouge and reliving the same atmospheres and emotions conveyed by the unforgettable movie featuring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor? All this is possible at the world's most famous cabaret.

Féerie, the most famous can-can show in Paris

Since 1999, the Moulin Rouge has presented the famous show "Féerie," a tribute to the tradition of Parisian cabaret, focusing on the splendor and sensuality that have made the venue famous. The production blends classical and modern dance choreography, such as the iconic can-can, and includes acrobatic and variety acts featuring jugglers, acrobats, ponies, and the 60 stunning Doriss Girls, who dance adorned in feathers and diamonds to music performed by 80 musicians and 60 choristers.

In addition to enjoying the show while sipping champagne, you can comfortably savor an exclusive dinner, choosing from one of the menus designed by Maison Dalloyau, inspired by traditional French cuisine. All served by friendly and attentive staff in a beautifully styled Belle Époque hall with 850 seats.

The Moulin Rouge's show + dinner offerings

The Moulin Rouge offers two options for the dinner and show package:

The cabaret hall seats 850 guests, so we recommend arriving at least an hour before the show starts to choose the best seat and avoid long waiting lines.

Right on the Champs Elysées, just steps from the Arc de Triomphe, shines the sign of the Lido, second only to the Moulin Rouge in fame, but not in performances. The Lido, renewed in 2022, has become a venue for international theatrical and musical performances, moving away from classic cabaret revues.

Cabaret shows at the Lido, the new offerings

Lido2 now hosts major musicals, with titles like the famous "Rocky Horror Show" and a new version of "La Flûte enchantée" by Goethe, curated by Damon Albarn.

This new offering no longer includes the traditional dinner during the show, but offers audiences pastries, making the experience more dynamic and accessible to both Parisian locals and tourists looking for more affordable options.

Tickets can currently be purchased on the official website.

Crazy Horse is renowned not only for its prime location almost on the Seine (at 12 Avenue George V), but also for its famously unconventional and avant-garde side.

The new show Totally Crazy

The shows at Crazy Horse are quite different from those offered by other cabarets because they are extremely sensual, creative, and bold. The dancers at Crazy Horse are selected based on artistic skill as well as very strict aesthetic criteria; indeed, the girls must all be quite similar in appearance. Thus, the dance troupe at this cabaret consists of lively and curvaceous girls performing almost completely nude.

Totally Crazy is a journey through the iconic numbers of Crazy Horse, blending sensuality and art in a contemporary and dynamic show that has come to represent cabaret in Paris.

The special effects are stunning, the costumes are luxurious, the musical rhythms are captivating, and the venue is extremely elegant, creating a perfect mix that will make your experience unique.

Paradis Latin officially opened its doors on January 20, 1889, in a historic theater built by Gustave Eiffel himself. Today, it showcases an authentic Parisian cabaret experience enhanced by modern technology, featuring dancers, burlesque performers, acrobats, comedians, and singers in fifteen incredible settings.

Oiseau Paradis, the Fun and Sensual Show

The flagship show at Paradis Latin is L'Oiseau Paradis, a visual and sensory experience lasting about 90 minutes that tells the story of a waiter who dreams of taking the stage.

During this show, Paradis Latin transforms into a surreal world, where exciting choreography of lights, sounds, and colors unfolds, with modern ballets and musical comedies performed by dancers, comedians, and singers.

When talking about Parisian cabarets, one name is unforgettable: Les Folies Bergère. Originally intended to host an opera theater, it later became one of the most famous cabarets in Paris and the world, located in a beautiful classic building.

Today, the theater offers a packed schedule of shows that combine modernity and tradition, featuring variety, musicals, and live theater. These iconic performances celebrate music, dance, and theatrical scenery, presenting high-quality artistic performances ranging from burlesque to modern classics. Even if you do not wish to attend one of its shows, Les Folies Bergère is worth a visit because it is a historic venue with a three-century legacy.

Would you like to immerse yourself in the Latin American atmosphere, the joy, the zest for life, and the cheerfulness that only hot and volcanic music like Salsa, Lambada, and Samba can convey?

At Brasil Tropical, the dance troupe ignites the theater stage with beautiful, colorful, and emotional choreography, showcasing all the Brazilian folklore and celebrating one of the world's most famous carnivals. Tickets available on the official website.

Indeed, besides the famous Parisian cabarets, there are more accessible options for those looking for low-cost cabaret shows.

The Cabaret Madame Arthur on rue des Martyrs in Paris, founded in the 1940s, is a historical landmark for cabaret and variety shows.

Known for its unique atmosphere and eclectic performances, it offers shows that range from traditional cabaret to contemporary music and drag. It is ideal for those seeking affordable cabaret and original nights in Paris. The shows change weekly and are offered both in the morning and evening.

BOOK NOW FOR THE SHOW AT MADAME ARTHUR

Historical cabaret in Montmartre, offering intimate evenings with folk songs and live music that evoke the bohemian atmosphere of the past. Artists and poets have frequented this venue since the early 20th century. The show is typically simple and authentic, perfect for those looking for a low-cost experience.

In this original and modern space, located in the Belleville district, comedians, acrobats, and musicians perform, combining cabaret with circus and theatrical elements. It is suitable for families and those looking for alternative entertainment at affordable prices, often with shows for all ages.