Experience Madame Arthur, the icon of Montmartre, in Japan.
Madame Arthur
The cabaret "Madame Arthur," a cult favorite in Paris, is set to make its Japan debut. The performances will be held at two of Japan's premier gay clubs: EXPLOSION in Osaka and AiSOTOPE LOUNGE in Tokyo. The Osaka show is scheduled for Friday, November 1, 2024, and the Tokyo show for Sunday, November 3 (the day before a public holiday).
Text by Kosaku Waseda
Captivating the World with Cross-Dressing Performances Since the 1940s
Pigalle, at the foot of Montmartre hill in Paris, is a hub of Parisian nightlife, home to the Moulin Rouge, concert halls, bars, and clubs. It has long been a popular area for enjoying the nightlife.
Among these, "Madame Arthur" stands out as a spot with cult popularity. Since its founding in 1946, it has enchanted audiences with music, shows, and dance performed by eccentric cross-dressing artists. Madame Arthur hosts cabaret shows and DJ nights every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, drawing crowds of Parisians, locals, and international tourists nightly to its unique performers.
Unlike drag queens, the artists at Madame Arthur use the term "cross-dressing creatures." This designation is based on a concept that separates the cross-dressed persona from gender issues, while simultaneously challenging conventional gender norms.
In essence, this differs from existing drag performances, signifying a diversity of identities and free self-expression unbound by convention. A fusion of various inspirations creates a unique worldview.
The chosen venues for this debut Japan tour are Osaka's EXPLOSION and Tokyo's AiSOTOPE LOUNGE, two of Japan's leading gay clubs. The events will also feature performances by Japanese drag queens associated with each venue. Experience a captivating night where French music and unique performances merge with Japan's gay club culture.
While the unique world and top-tier performances are undoubtedly appealing, Madame Arthur is also an irreplaceable space for the LGBTQ+ community. It celebrates free expression and diversity, fostering love and acceptance. Though the word "diversity" has become ubiquitous recently, Madame Arthur has been captivating audiences with shows that defy prejudice since the 1940s.
This strong foundation lends authenticity to Madame Arthur's performances, allowing it to remain a beloved and unique entity for over 70 years. This tour offers a precious opportunity to experience these performances firsthand in Japan. As discussions around the cultural value of the night-time economy gain traction, glimpsing Paris's deep-rooted nightlife culture holds significant appeal.
Madame Arthur -JAPAN TOUR- Time | OPEN 21:00 CLOSE 5:00 Advance Ticket (with priority entry bonus) | ¥5,500 / 1 Drink Same-day Ticket | ¥6,500 / 1 Drink, with GOODS: ¥8,500 / 1 Drink Performers: | La Briochée, Loa Mercury, Martin Poppins DJ | DJ Chambord
La Briochée is the stage name of Maeva Triou. An openly transgender drag queen singer, actress, and performer. Captivated by the worlds of cabaret and cinema, La Briochée is active in various fields including singing, dubbing, voice acting, film, and writing. She also works to promote greater diversity in the French audiovisual and cultural sectors, and consults on scripts and projects centered on trans identity.
Participated in Season 1 of "Drag Race France."
