There’s a feast of new Musical Shows in Paris

For lovers of musical theatre, autumn means one thing; a whole host of new musical shows in Paris to enjoy. Musical shows have been a Parisian speciality since the glory days of the Moulin Rouge, but in recent years the city has been looking to seize Broadway’s crown by presenting superb musicals with fabulous production values, astonishing special effects and brilliant performances. Yet throughout there has been great care taken to ensure these productions retain a suitably French artistic identity. With that in mind, we at the Hotel de l'Université would like to present you with our recommendations from the selection of new shows.

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Musical productions catering to a wide range of tastes

 

Flashdance at the Théâtre du Gymnase

Get out your legwarmers and headbands! We head back to the early 80s for Flashdance, the Musical at the Théâtre du Gymnase from September 23rd to March 11th. The 1983 movie was huge, as was its soundtrack album, spawning such massive hits as ‘What A Feeling’, ‘Maniac’ and ‘Gloria’. These and many more classics, in addition to new songs specifically written for this new musical production, will be performed by a talented cast that includes Priscilla Betti as Alex, the young welder who dreams of becoming a dancing star. You won’t be able to resist singing along to this nostalgic blast from the past.

 

Carmen Dance at the Palais des Congrès

However, if your taste runs more towards classical music and ballet, then you should not miss Carmen Dance at the Palais des Congrès, from 24 October to 23 November. Performed by the Siberian National Ballet, this production will be visually sumptuous in both costumes and setting, and the music of Georges Bizet is, of course, magnificent. Based on the novel by Prosper Mérimée, the ballet tells a story of passion, tragic love and jealousy between the characters of the fiery gypsy Carmen and the naïve soldier Don José. Intoxicating, powerful and moving, this production will stir your soul.

Love Circus at the Folies Bergère

The Folies Bergère is a Parisian icon. This music hall was established in 1869 and is still going strong today, presenting such shows as the upcoming Love Circus. From the hit show creating team of Stéphane Jarny, Agnès Boury and Stéphane Laporte, this musical comedy brings together themes of cabaret and the circus. Extravagant, explosive, acrobatic and fun-packed, it tells the story of two sisters who present a circus revue and find success and prosperity, yet are lacking in love until the unexpected appearance of a third sister changes everything. Love Circus opens on October 28th.

 

An American in Paris at the Théâtre du Châtelet

A world premiere before Broadway, An American In Paris runs from November 22nd to April 1st at the Théâtre du Châtelet. If you remember the 1951 movie in which Gene Kelly danced spectacularly to the music of George and Ira Gershwin, you will certainly not want to miss this reimagining of a classic. The tale of a jaunty ex-G.I. and his experiences in the City of Light following World War II as he falls in love with a Parisian girl is a delight. The show’s director and choreographer is Christopher Wheeldon and yes, that stunning extended ballet sequence you remember from the film will feature.

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• Flashdance: September 23 - March 11, 2015 Théâtre du Gymnase Marie Bell 38, boulevard de Bonne Nouvelle, Paris 10e Metro : Station Bonne Nouvelle, lines 8 or 9
• Carmen Danse: October 24-26 octobre, and November 23, 2014 Palais des Congrès, 2 place de la Porte Maillot, Paris 17e Tel. 0033 (0)1 40 68 22 22 Metro : Porte Maillot, line 1
• Love Circus, Folies Bergère, 32 Rue Richer, Paris 9e Tel. 0033 (0)1 44 79 98 60 Metro Cadet, line 7 - Grands Boulevards, lines 8, 9
• An American in Paris: November 22 - January 4, 2015 Théâtre du Châtelet, 2 rue Edouard Colonne, Paris 1er Tel. 0033 (0)1 40 28 28 40 Metro : Châtelet (exit Théâtre du Châtelet or Place du Châtelet) - lines 1, 4, 7, 11, 14 RER A / B ou D : Châtelet - Les Halles

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Featured picture copyright holder : Tourist office Paris - Photographer [Nom]

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