The Crazy Horse cabaret, which is considered one of the cultural symbols of Paris, will soon hold its first performance in Dubai. This show, set to be showcased in a luxury hotel, aims to align with local cultural sensitivities by adopting a different approach and moderating the level of nudity compared to the original version.
Attention to Local Culture in Show Design
This performance, which will start on November 12, despite still utilizing its attractive designs and special lighting, has avoided complete nudity. André Disenberg, the creative head and brand manager of this group, explains that in Dubai, the costume designs have been altered to be compatible with local culture. He stated: "In Paris, dancers usually wear little clothing, but in Dubai, there are more garments, and the special lighting has been preserved."
Dubai's Vision as a Cultural Hub
The United Arab Emirates, as a country with a Muslim and predominantly immigrant population, with over 10 million people and more than 9,000 mosques, strives to present an image of softness and modernity amid regional tensions. The opening of the Crazy Horse cabaret in this country signifies Dubai's efforts to become a cultural and entertainment hub in the Gulf. This project was initiated in collaboration with a French entrepreneur based in Dubai in early 2025, making Dubai the only city outside France to host this permanent show.
This cabaret, founded in 1951 by Alain Bernardin, is renowned for its artistic performances and the use of special lighting in stage design. In Dubai, for the first time, an aerial act will also be included in the show. However, the performance space in Dubai is significantly different from the intimate and underground atmosphere of Paris, leaning more towards grandeur and magnificence.
Guests at this performance will sit in comfortable velvet chairs and can order food and drinks while watching the show. Brio Mindest, one of the 18 dancers in the group, praises the teams that have designed nearly 500 different costumes, saying: "We had to adapt to the customs and needs of Dubai, and we did this with style and elegance."
After several years of closure for its branches in Las Vegas and Singapore, Dubai was chosen as the new destination for Crazy Horse. With a population that is nearly 90% immigrant and a high annual visitor rate, Dubai seems to be a suitable location for this show.
However, the existing tensions in the region due to the reciprocal attacks between Iran and Israel pose a serious threat to this project. Disenberg clarifies: "At the height of the attacks, we hesitated for a moment, but our local partner is confident that Dubai will become a vibrant center again." He adds: "People in war-torn areas say that life must go on and things must continue."
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