Paris isn’t Paris without a Show! – Le Lido de Paris

Saturday, May 16th, 2009 at11:40 pm by Guest Author

Le Lido de Paris

Where is it?

The Lido is a favorite for Parisiens. It is at 116 bis avenue des Champs-Elysées. The nearest Metro station is George V, on line 1.

Potted History

Five people were key in the history and success of Le Lido.

The Clerico Brothers

Joseph and Louis Clerico, brothers of Italian ancestry, bought La Plage de Paris in 1946 and transformed it into Le Lido. It became a luxury setting for people to dine while watching a revue – a new concept which was soon copied all over the world. In 1955, the opened a Lido at the Stardust in Las Vegas which closed in 1992.

Miss Bluebell

Irish born Margaret Kelly aka Miss Bluebell joined the Lido in 1948, two years after it opened. The Cabarets in both Paris and Las Vegas were perfect showcases for the talented and famous Bluebell Girls who remain the principle attractions of Le Lido.

Pierre-Louis Guérin

Pierre-Louis Guérin was studying to be a Doctor but gave it up to follow his dream of working in show business. He opened a cabaret called Le Club and then joined the Clerico brothers in managing the Lido.

René Fraday

René Fraday started in show business as a dancer for Mistinguett, the toast of all Paris Music Hall. After spending four years producing shows in America, he was hired by Pierre-Louis Guérin as Artistic Director of the Lido. He held this position until 1994.

Le Lido today

Because of its’ huge success, larger premises were needed and the Lido moved to its’ current home in 1977. To make sure that everyone in the audience has a great view, the 1,150 seat theatre has no columns or pillars. A single, 45 meter long pre stressed concrete beam gives the required load bearing support. A huge elevator lowers the orchestra section 80 centimetres into the floor for even better viewing. There is room for 300 diners at any one time.

Famous People who have performed there

Elvis Presley – when he was an American GI on leave with army friends, he gave an impromptu concert there…oh to have been in that audience!
Edith Piaf
Maurice Chevalier
Marlene Dietrich
Josephine Baker
Elton John
Laurel & Hardy
Shirley MacLaine
Mitzi Gaynor
Noel Coward

What can you see there now?

The current show is “Revue Bonheur” which lasts for one and a half hours. It includes 70 artists, Bluebell Girls, an ice rink, amazing special effects, spectacular water displays, 600 magnificent costumes and 23 stunning sets.

There is a lot of choice at Le Lido. There are matinee shows with or without lunch on Sundays and Tuesdays. During the week, there are two shows at 9.30 and 11.30. You can choose to dine or have a champagne only revue.

How can I see a show at Le Lido

To read more about what you can choose from and to book, go HERE

I find that Expedia have excellent package deals for airfares, hotels and car hire when you are heading off to Paris France.