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Celebrated Parisian drag cabaret Chez Michou shuts down

The drag cabaret Chez Michou, which was founded by the late Michel Catty who opened the business in the French capital's Montmartre district 68 years ago where it attracted showbiz stars and a French president, has closed its doors over financial difficulties.

La rédaction de Mediapart

This article is freely available.

A celebrated French drag cabaret has given its final performance, bringing an end to the Parisian fixture that inspired a Hollywood film, reports BBC News.

Chez Michou said on social media that Sunday's performance would be its last due to financial reasons.

The trailblazing cabaret in the capital's Montmartre district brought drag entertainment to France in the mid-1950s.

The venue's managers said that a liquidator would be appointed later this month, with hopes that a buyer can be found for the club.

Despite being in a tiny venue, Chez Michou decorated with gilt framed mirrors attracted visitors from across France and around the world.

In its heyday, they included French President Jacques Chirac and Hollywood star Liza Minnelli.

The servers who kept the champagne flowing were called Michettes, and doubled as performers in the lively club.

Chez Michou was founded by flamboyant cabaret artist Michel Catty - known simply as Michou.

The larger-than-life character was known for his all-blue outfits - including chunky blue glasses.

Read more of this report from BBC News.