Entertainment has a long journey through the history of mankind. Some originally started to entertain themselves by storytelling around a bonfire. It was the desire to connect with others by listening and sharing stories, however, obviously this form of entertainment has evolved over time. Many of the ancient civilizations had their own way of entertaining too. The Greeks held their Olympic Games and Egyptians loved dice games and music, playing the flute, harp and lute. In Rome’s civilization it was the famous Colosseum where up to 50.000 spectators would watch gladiator combats or the Circus Maximus chariots race in the public stadium.
When I think of the start of modern era entertainment, the famous Moulin Rouge and its cabaret comes to mind. The cabaret originated in Paris and was created during the famous “Belle Epoque “ around the same time when the Eiffel Tower was built. Its famous can-can dance was originally a seductive dance developed as their own
and over time made it across Europe. Many famous artists and singers were magically drawn by this place. It was a given privilege to perform there. Two famous names are undoubtedly connected with Moulin Rouge from which their careers started. The first is Edith Piaf who is considered one of the biggest French singers and actors to ever do it. Her chansons and ballads about love and sorrow are unforgettable even today. The second person is Yves Montagne who started his artistic destiny as an actor and singer and proceeded to act on Broadway. Moulin Rouge became the epitome of a modern era of entertainment. Every year approximately 600,000 visitors flock to this famous Parisian institution in the Montmartre district.
In the digital era, the internet with its social platforms, seems to be a huge entertainer itself. The global world in which we now live allow us to connect with others anywhere on the planet. We can share our opinions with the world, browse different websites and shop online, which is all considered a form of 21st century entertainment.
Entertainment has evolved for sure and we as the consumers have changed and adjusted as well. However, one thing will always remain the same, we all want to be amused, stimulated, pleased, have fun and delight in as many epoch times that we can find.
Photo Credit Antonio Sessa