Cabaret de Paris

The spectacle, extravagance and glamour of the showgirl has been appropriated by Hollywood, pop music and the fashion industry, in most cases reducing it to little more than soft porn with big feathers. 

However, the true showgirl represents a pinnacle of skill, beauty, and artistry, faithful to the traditions of revue which originated in the legendary Moulin Rouge, Paris – still the most prestigious house in the world. All the more impressive then that Australian dancer, Marissa Burgess is distinguished as having been the longest serving principal dancer at Moulin Rouge. It was something she had set her sights on from an early age.

“You know, everyone’s got their priorities in life, that was mine, so consequently when I got [to Moulin Rouge] I really was aiming to get the top job.” Burgess was accepted at age 17, and became principal within a few short years. “I got it so early that I thought, well what do I do now?”

That question was quickly answered: try to remain fresh and maintain the standard to stay at the top. And that she did for a record 16 years. 

Now back in Australia, Burgess is bringing the unique thrill of French revue to local audiences. Cabaret de Paris is an authentic Parisian style show featuring exquisite costumes, incredible lighting and sets, wonderful music and premium dancers, many of them Australian. “The standard here is very high,” says Burgess. 

Renowned illusionist, Michael Boyd will be guest performer and is guaranteed to stun audiences with his logic defying “magic” as he has done around the world. The show will also include comedy, circus style acts and traditional French songs performed by Burgess in her new incarnation as a chanteur – yet another life achievement.

“It was a goal of mine to speak French really well and it was a goal of mine to sing Edith Piaf songs,” she says, explaining that singing in French can be as difficult as dancing. 

Cabaret de Paris will have only two performances in Sydney. It’s a rare chance to see revue in its pure, glorious form which is, as Burgess describes: 

“Big extravaganzas and costume and excitement and just fantasy… It doesn’t really have to have any purpose in life, it just has to be fantastic!”

Jun 30, 2pm (family friendly), 7:30pm (topless dancers). State Theatre, 49 Market St, Sydney. $62-$129+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.statetheatre.com.au

By Rita Bratovich.

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