In the year before the First World War there were some 80 cabarets in Montmartre. Two evenings ago two English friends who have settled in Dordogne and ourselves visited the last of these still in being. And what a delight it has been ! We are talking about Le Lapin Agile which in itself is a play on words. The sign outside, not unlike an English pub sign, depicts a sprightly rabbit emerging from a stewpot, in one hand a bottle of red wine. This sign was painted by Andre Gill, hence « Là peint A. Gill » which become Lapin Agile. This was the cabaret frequented by Pablo Picasso and many other artiste whose works adorn the walls. Writers Appolinaire, Carco and Pierre Mac Orlan were habitues. For well over a hundred years this cabaret has promoted new poetic and vocal talent in the realm of true popular song. Frankly we expected it might have deteriorated into a tourist trap, but the traditions have been jealously maintained. Yves Mathieu, the present owner, singer and  master-of-ceremonies, follows in the steps of his illustrious forbear, Aristide Bruant, of red scarf and black felt hat fame on the Toulouse-Lautrec poster. Again, we were surprised, expecting a few songs, followed by a long break and a few more songs. Not a bit of it. Five hours’ continuous entertaiment on a very high level. The atmosphere is totally lacking in pretentiousness and there is a feeling of continuity and communion with the  “greats“  who passed that way across the years. The “ Lapin “ is open nightly from 9 pm to 2 am except Mondays. Very highly recommanded.

                                                                                                                        Ralph HARVEY