Madame Arthur

The red velvet curtains and the bold, illuminated nameplate above the entrance distinguish Madame Arthur from the other storefronts on the street. This cabaret was the first to feature drag performances in Paris, opening its doors in nineteen forty-six. The venue took its name from a popular song about a man who dressed as a woman to deceive his lovers. During the early years, the owner required performers to remain in character even when moving through the crowd to serve drinks to patrons.