On April 25th, at 2 am, Paris experienced a minor mishap when the iconic wings of the Moulin Rouge, a symbol of the city for 135 years, crashed onto the sidewalk of Pigalle. The accident, which did not injure anyone despite the busy time of night, resulted in the facade being left with a comical “lin rouge” instead of the original Moulin Rouge sign. The incident was covered by the international press, adding a touch of amusement to an otherwise ordinary event. The cabaret, frequented by six hundred thousand spectators annually, was reopened promptly by management, who vowed to restore the lost wings to the beloved establishment.
Established in 1889 by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler, the Moulin Rouge drew inspiration from the mills on the Montmartre hill. Its architecture combined elements of the popular japonism style with eccentricities such as a giant stucco elephant statue that later disappeared. The venue quickly became a hit, attracting a diverse crowd ranging from the working class to aristocrats out for a night of revelry. Performers like Joseph Pujol, known as “le Pétomane,” delighted audiences with his unique flatulence concerts. The comedic duo Foottit and Chocolat experienced great success, with the latter, a Black man, playing the role of the butt of jokes. The establishment also showcased the English-born “french cancan” dance, featuring high-kicking dancers with visible garters that captivated audiences.
Among the Moulin Rouge dancers, Louise Weber stood out as “la Goulue” for her habit of draining customers’ glasses and playfully kicking off their top hats with her foot. Renowned artist Henri Toulouse-Lautrec frequented the cabaret and immortalized the ambiance in his paintings and posters, including depictions of Weber. Other notable dancers such as “Môme Fromage,” “Grille d’égout,” “Jane la Folle,” “Nini Patte-en-l’air,” and “Rayon d’or” left their mark on the venue. Singer Yvette Guilbert and contortionist “Valentin le Désossé” also gained fame at the Moulin Rouge. In 1893, a fully nude Cleopatra act caused a scandal, adding to the cabaret’s allure. The reign of operetta and the success of Mistinguett further solidified the venue’s prominence. Despite a fire in 1915, the Moulin Rouge was rebuilt and expanded, continuing to captivate audiences.
Despite the nostalgic charm and rich history of the Moulin Rouge, the accidental loss of its wings serves as a reminder of its vulnerability to mishaps. The establishment has weathered various challenges over the years, from fires to changing artistic trends, but has always managed to bounce back, thanks to its enduring popularity and loyal patronage. The recent incident, while humorous in nature, underscores the resilience and adaptability of this iconic Parisian landmark, reminding us of its timeless appeal and ability to captivate audiences with its unique blend of entertainment and artistry. Whether it’s the cancan dancers, comedic acts, or scandalous performances, the Moulin Rouge continues to enchant visitors from around the world, cementing its status as a symbol of the Belle Époque glamour and allure that continues to fascinate and inspire audiences today.
