Created to celebrate 100 years of the legendary Folies Bergère, this dazzling circa 1960 poster captures the glamorous essence of Parisian revue theatre at its most extravagant. Illustrated by Darnel, a master of fashion-forward, sensual poster design, it immortalizes an era where feathers, sequins, and leggy showgirls defined the spectacle.
The central figure—voluptuous, radiant, and dramatically posed—epitomizes the revue’s celebratory spirit. She is all sparkle and seduction, adorned in a white corset, opera gloves, and a bursting black plume skirt that seems to move with the music. Darnel’s distinctive hand—elegant, loose, yet controlled—adds kinetic flair, giving the composition irresistible momentum.
The typography is delightfully theatrical, with “Et vive la folie” (Long live the madness) scrawled in exuberant red, as if shouting from the wings. Supporting text in green and black names Paul Derval, the Folies’ famed impresario, and Michel Gyarmathy, the choreographer behind the “nouveau spectacle éblouissant” (dazzling new show).
The Folies Bergère, founded in 1869, was Paris's temple of variety entertainment, known for mixing cabaret, operetta, circus, ballet, and nudity into unforgettable visual feasts. This centennial celebration poster is not only a tribute to the house’s glorious past but also a signal that the madness of la Folie was still alive and kicking—high-heeled and in sync.
Posters by Darnel from this era remain highly collectible for their flair and fashion appeal, especially those celebrating French nightlife. This piece is a jewel of mid-century stage promotion, brimming with charm, sensuality, and joyful excess.
A must-have for enthusiasts of vintage cabaret art, Parisian culture, or graphic design from the golden age of entertainment.
Cabaret - Show - France
Paul Derval - Michel Gyarmathy
Printed by Aussel in Paris
Good condition, creases, dirt, small tears
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