If you are lucky enough to be in Paris now you would be able to catch a peek of the famous Le Crazy Horse cabaret show at Printemps department store window. Not quite the same as the Christmas displays at Macy’s, this randier version highlights the talents of one of the oldest cabaret shows in Paris. These shows are not about sex but rather the art of seduction and the beauty of the human body.
Granted, the girls must conform to standards in terms of body measurements that have been in effect since they opened in 1951. The reasons being the sames as those for the Rockettes in New York, the dancers need to appear uniform in their routines, it is part of the art.
And yes, it is art. If you have ever had the opportunity to see one of these shows, you will be amazed at the synchronization skills that these women have. It is like synchronized swimming without the water!
It is sexy but not about sex. Unlike Americans, European children are raised exposed to nudity on TV, in magazines, in advertising. It is not hidden away and thus shameful, but a natural part of life.
So if you are traveling to Paris in the next week, swing by Printemps and check it out. If you can’t make it (sigh), here are some photos (there is nudity). You can also see the actual show at their theater or see any number of shows in Paris such as the famous Lido or Moulin Rouge. All these shows are a bit pricey, but well worth it to experience once in your lifetime.
No plans to travel that far? You can check out the same, exact show at the MGM in Las Vegas.
Related posts:
- French Friday – French Dog Names On our last trip to Paris in November, I learned...
- French Friday – Le Metro A post by Vicki Archer of French Essence where she...
- French Friday – A Little French in your Inbox Interested in traveling to France or reading about French culture...
- French Friday – American Food in Paris Picking up from last week’s French Friday: Non to McMona...
Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Le sigh. I have always wanted to see one of these shows. Someday…
Love Le Crazy Horse. Last saw a show there in 1992. Now I feel old.
I wonder if we raised children here in a similar way to what Europeans do if they would not have so many sexual hangups later on. I wish I could be in Paris to see this, but alas Allentown PA will have to suffice.
I am so happy that finally someone has understood what these cabaret shows are about. I am French living in the UK and each time Paris and I try to explain what these shows are here, it becomes a huge debate on whether its pornography or a strip tease. The idea of enjoying the beauty of a nude body seducing an audience without it being about sex is not even an option.
Anyway, I went to see the Lido. I was so impressed by the quality of the show and the exquisite food. Highly recommended. I also wanted to complete that list of cabarets with “Le Paradis Latin”. It also provides a similar performance art.
@Marine – thanks for the comment, I have wanted to visit Lido and have yet to do it, I need to try to catch the show on my next visit to Paris.