CHAT NOIR! – A Night of French Anarchy

Simon
20 hours ago
3 min read

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Start a révolution to get a ticket.”

A clown in white costume, face expressive, gestures dramatically near a violinist playing on stage. Dimly lit background with warm hues.

Tonight, it’s 1890 Paris. The legendary Parisian nightclub Le Chat Noir reopens—and you are not just watching the spectacle, you are part of it.

This is one of the finest immersive dinner‑theatre experiences currently on offer, and an absolute joy to behold. The sheer level of talent, coupled with extraordinary attention to detail, is nothing short of stupendous.

From the moment you arrive, you are swept down a velvet‑lined corridor festooned with historic posters and imagery, illuminating the club’s rich past. You’re handed the evening’s programme in the form of a French newspaper—Le Chat Noir—and then ushered into the nightclub itself.

Velvet drapes, chandeliers, candles and the glow of “newly invented” electric lights flicker softly, instantly transporting you to the 1890s. Every seat enjoys a perfect view of the in‑the‑round stage. The scene is set.

Our Impresario

Guiding us through the evening is Rodolphe Salis, inventor of cabaret himself. With humour, charm and razor‑sharp wit, he commands the room effortlessly. From the first moment, you feel safe in his hands—and certain you’re in for something special. The energy never dips.

Le Chat Noir Cabaret Revue

Performer in red corset gestures dramatically on stage. Audience watches intently. Dimly lit with green lamps, creating an intimate mood.

The show unfolds in three glorious acts.

Act I: The Essence of Art

A showcase of exquisite talent—beautiful songs from muse Yvette Guilbert, followed by a delicate and moving mime tragedy led by the master Pierrot. The act concludes with Joseph Buatier, whose magical illusions and mind‑reading leave the audience visibly astonished.

Act II: The Absinthe Dream of Rodolphe Salis

A dreamy, atmospheric interlude exploring the cultural significance of absinthe in Montmartre, featuring the hypnotic dance of the Absinthe Fairy.

Act III: Anarchy

All gloves are off. Standout dancer Cléo de Mérode builds climax after climax, driving the show towards a stupendous, joyous finale. The result? A full standing ovation, with the audience singing, clapping and stamping as one.

Immersion at Every Level

Every performer, without exception, is supremely talented and deeply passionate. The live musicians add yet another layer, bathing the night in rich French atmosphere. Everyone remains in character throughout, with playful audience interaction and close‑up magic woven seamlessly into the experience.

Supper & Service

Dinner is as thoughtfully crafted as the show itself: Pâté Maison, salami and French bread, followed by Coq au Vin and a perfectly presented lemon tart sprinkled with edible flowers. The chicken was moist and full of flavour, and vegetarian options were equally well considered. For the adventurous, extras include snails, frogs’ legs and oysters.

With wine, imaginative cocktails and a tempting selection of absinthes, indulgence is actively encouraged.

Despite serving over 200 guests, the three‑course supper flows smoothly alongside the entertainment. The waitstaff—immaculately dressed in period costume—are courteous, efficient and superbly organised.

Final Thoughts

The full experience runs around three and a half hours, and I strongly recommend dressing up, arriving early and embracing it fully. It’s exceptional value and created with immense passion, care and love for the art form.

You will leave smiling—buoyed by the spirit of French anarchy.(Especially if you’ve sampled the absinthe.)