La Danse Apache

La Danse Apache

Paris, France - 1908

The evening was shattered

as Mistinguette and Max

danced an act of violent attacks

between a prostitute and pimp. 

Her clothes were tattered

in disarray, some torn away

as to expose a breast 

and her “million-dollar” legs

Her face appeared battered

bruised and bloodied 

He walked with a limp

carried a fistful of money.

He was her pimp

and she was his honey

but he treated her like dirt.

All could see that she was hurt.

The scene began

with the music “Valse Chaloupee” 

and she was tossed to the floor.

He told her to leave 

but she wanted more.

She grabbed for the money

but he slapped her face

then he pulled her in

and held her in his embrace.

She tried again, and this time

he twisted her around his waist

several times, then raised her on high

only to let her go 

and she fell to the floor.

The scene continued with

extreme acts of staged violence

humiliation, and subjugation 

requiring great strength and balance.

It ended when she used a knife

from her garter to cut his throat.

The dance called Apache was born that night.

The reception and applause were huge

the night Mistinguette and Max

danced Apache at the Moulon Rouge.