Can-can
For other uses, see Can-can (disambiguation).
Depiction of the can-can by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, 1895 The can-can (also spelled cancan as in the original French /kɑ̃kɑ̃/) is a high-energy, physically demanding dance that became a popular music-hall dance in the 1840s, continuing in popularity in French cabaret to this day. Originally danced by both genders, it is now traditionally associated with a chorus line of female dancers. The main features of the dance are the vigorous manipulation of skirts and petticoats, along with high kicks, splits, and cartwheels. History Georges Seurat, 1889–90, Le Chahut, oil on canvas, 170 × 141 cm, Kröller-Müller Museum Toulouse-Lautrec, Jane Avril Dancing The can-can is believed… Continue Reading (6 minute read)
“The early can-can dancers were probably prostitutes” lol
Was watching Moulin Rouge! and stumbled upon this piece of trivia, which really changed the image of this dance for me. Apparently it ruined the whole thing for my wife who now won’t speak to me because I have now ruined such a delightful dance for her.
For 19th century standards high kicks showing undergarments would be enough to be named scandalous (like every dance that pushed the boundry even a little bit, like waltz, toddle, etc). Showing your crotch would still classify as scandalous today. They were extra scandalous back than.
But also, the high kicks were often used to kick particularly grabby patrons. It was quite an aggressive dance
[Nice Can Can from the 1952 movie Moulin Rouge](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exrcnq6Uac4).
It was like a tidal wave that swept through Parisian culture for 30 years.
CAN CAN CAN YOU DO THE CAN CAN WHILE SITTING ON THE CAN CAN?
What’s the difference between a magician and a chorus line?
One has a cunning array of stunts!
That’s a whole lot of French bush!