French Music Hall Tradition

The amazing colors and exotic Orientalism of the Ballet Russe in the early 1900's had a profound influence on Paris, its artists and the art movements of the time, namely Futurism, Cubism, and Constructivism. From the culmination of these, emerged the Art Deco style, which evolved through the war and into the roaring 20s.

There was an explosion of unrestrained creativity and a new optimism. The French Music Hall Revues became multi-sensory extravaganzas. The influence of African Art and American Jazz influenced the costumes and sets designed by the greatest artists, Erte, Picasso, Paul Poiret and Brunalleschi. They were a triumph and exported around the world. This was the Jazz Age.

There was a freedom and sensuality never before seen. Icons like Josephine Baker and Louise Brooks became trend setters for the Garcons, the French version of the 1920s Flappers. Short hair, sexy lingerie, and a hard hitting attitude became the vogue.

The tradition continues!