Moulin Rouge means ‘red windmill’. This famous site got its name from the red windmill that once stood where the Moulin Rouge is now. The iconic red windmill replica atop the Moulin Rouge is another nod to the location’s history. It was rebuilt in 1915 after the site was destroyed by a fire. Reconstruction took six years, with the cabaret finally re-opening in 1921 following the end of the First World War.
This legendary show keeps its doors open year-round, although tickets can sell out months in advance. Three performances run each evening, an 8 pm dinner show, as well as a 9 pm and 11 pm show, allowing visitors to book a time that best suits their itinerary.
Metro trains are ideal for getting around the city. Blanche station on metro line 2 is within easy walking distance of the Moulin Rouge. The 11 pm performance usually concludes after the metro closes for the night, so your best bet for hotel returns at this time will be via taxi.
Moulin Rouge musical is approximately 2 hours & 30 minutes long including the intermission.
Some of the Moulin Rouge show is in French and some of it is in English. But not knowing French is not a barrier to enjoying this entertaining show.