The end of a magic institution

[Tom Moore]

It’s just been confirmed that “plus grand cabaret du monde” (the biggest cabaret in the world) European tv show will end after the current season. It’s hard to explain what a cultural institution this show is - a 2 hour show of pure variety (with 3-4 magic acts every episode) and no gimmicks other than presenting the best and most interesting acts in the best conditions possible that is filmed in France and broadcast across Europe and attracting ratings that out performer “got talent” and “idol” shows. Broadcast prime time once per month (plus a 4 hour new-years-eve special) It’s probably the last tv show in the world that can truely make a star overnight as a newcomer appearing on the show will be booked in every gala show and casino in Europe. The show has been a passionate supporter of magicians and there’s really not a major working stage magician in Europe that doesn’t owe something to this show

The host of the show Patrick Sebastian is an iconic celeb in mainland Europe (he’s been the Ryan secrest of France for over 30 years) and he has parted ways with the broadcaster that makes the show. Because of the unique partnership it isnt possible for either the broadcaster to continue the show without him or for him to take the show to another network.

They shoot 3 episodes at a time so there will only be 2 more Filming sessions and the show will end September 2019. It’s truely the end of an era.

[performer]

A great pity. I have never seen a bad act on that show.

[Joe Mckay]

It is a fascinating show. I always seem to find myself catching it on TV whenever I am in Europe. I am not really a fan of Variety (I don't even like watching magic) - but the idea of a regular pan-European show always intrigued me. There was always something very soothing about that show.

[magicfish]

I loved that show and I loved watching Bernard Bilis work the table.

[Joe Mckay]

I knew nothing about the show the first few times I saw it. I just kept thinking it was a strange coincidence that I kept finding myself watching variety shows the first night I watched TV anytime I arrived somewhere in Europe.

This must be the show Tommy Wonder had in mind when he spoke about the respect that variety had in Europe but which was sadly missing in Britain and America.

[magicfish]

I never understood a word of it (as it was in French) but I watched it all the way through and loved every second of it.
Thanks for reminding us of it Joe.