French Cabaret Crazy Horse Adapts Show for Dubai Debut

The Parisian cabaret institution Crazy Horse is making its debut performance in Dubai at the luxury Jumeirah Zabeel Saray hotel. To align the production with local cultural norms in the United Arab Emirates, the organizers have modified the performance by increasing the level of costume coverage for the ensemble. While the original French staging relies extensively on light projections over minimal attire, the adapted show features dancers wearing full physical costumes.

The costume adjustments were designed through a collaboration with the creative team based in Paris. Despite the changes to the wardrobe, the production maintains the cabaret's established aesthetic parameters, including its proprietary stage setup, light arrangements, and original choreography. The dancers participating in the Middle Eastern debut underwent the company's specialized training to perform the routines.

Andree Deissenberg, Chief Creative and Brand Officer of Crazy Horse Paris, stated that the production retains the complete identity of the brand despite the regional modifications. Deissenberg noted that the creative team worked within the parameters of the established format to introduce more covered attire while retaining the underlying lighting design. Addressing the broader context of staging the event, Deissenberg expressed that continuing with artistic projects remains significant even during periods of regional conflict.

Members of the performing cast highlighted the logistical and artistic preparation required to bring the traditional cabaret concept to a new geographic audience. Dancer Brio Mindset stated that cast members had evaluated how the project would take shape and operate over the longer term. Mindset added that participating in the production allowed the dancers to present the identity of the Parisian establishment to a new public while demonstrating the feasibility of adapting the show.

Written by Martina Kirchner martina.kirchner@alpineweekly.com