The iconic windmill sails of the Moulin Rouge, a vibrant emblem of Paris’s bohemian lifestyle, collapsed Thursday after a show. No injuries were reported. The incident took place shortly before 2 a.m., after the last performance of the night had ended and the audience had left the historic cabaret venue, renowned for its dazzling shows and can-can dancers.
Quick Read
- Windmill Collapse: The iconic windmill sails of the Moulin Rouge collapsed early Thursday morning following the venue’s last show of the night. Fortunately, there were no injuries as the audience had already departed.
- Cause and Response: Jean-Victor Clerico, director of the Moulin Rouge, attributed the collapse to a technical problem. He assured that despite the damage, the shows at the Moulin Rouge would continue, underscoring the cabaret’s resilience.
- Safety Confirmation: Eric Lejoindre, the mayor of Paris’s 18th district, confirmed on social media platform X that there was no risk of further structural collapse and expressed relief that no one was injured.
- Local Reaction: Residents and local business owners expressed their surprise and relief that the incident resulted in no injuries. They noted the temporary visual impact on the site, a popular spot for tourists, comparing it to the more prolonged restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral.
- Historical Context: The Moulin Rouge, celebrating its 135th anniversary this October, is a historical and cultural landmark in Paris, known globally for its entertainment and distinctly Parisian character. This is not the first time it has faced significant damage; it was previously devastated by a fire in 1915 and underwent extensive renovations.
The Associated Press has the story:
Windmill sails at Paris’ iconic Moulin Rouge collapsed. No injuries are reported
Newslooks- PARIS (AP) —
The iconic windmill sails of the Moulin Rouge, a vibrant emblem of Paris’s bohemian lifestyle, collapsed Thursday after a show. No injuries were reported.
The incident took place shortly before 2 a.m., after the last performance of the night had ended and the audience had left the historic cabaret venue, renowned for its dazzling shows and can-can dancers.
Jean-Victor Clerico, the director of Moulin Rouge, told French media that a “technical problem” led to the windmill’s sails and part of the cabaret’s illuminated sign crashing to the ground.
Despite the setback, Clerico said that the show at Moulin Rouge will go on, emphasizing the cabaret’s resilience and commitment to continuing its legacy. “The show continues, that’s the most important thing,” he said.
Eric Lejoindre, mayor of Paris’s 18th district, confirmed on X that the structure was not in danger of further collapse. He conveyed relief over the safety of both Parisians and visitors.
Local Sylvain Lemerle said it was lucky no one was hurt.
“It will be strange for the tourists who will take pictures without the sails, it looks a bit naked but it will be replaced, and certainly quicker than Notre Dame,” he told The Associated Press, referring to the historic Paris cathedral that was ravaged by a fire in 2019.
The Moulin Rouge, which marks its 135th anniversary in October, primarily attracts tourists today. It was severely damaged by a fire in 1915 and was closed for nine years for renovations.
Stephane Cachelin, from a local shop-owners association, said it is “a symbol of Montmartre, of its village, the bohemian way of life, of Paris. The whole world comes here to take pictures.”
