Photo credit to Alan Alabastro
You may have seen the blue and yellow circus tent along the side on Mercer St, well that’s the original Teatro ZinZanni spiegeltent aka “Moulin Rouge, built in 1910 by renowned craftsman Willem Klessens which are climate-controlled and boasts stained glass, hand-carved wooden interior columns, polished crystal and vintage mirrors. The historic masterpiece consists of over 4000 pieces, designed to be erected and broken down in a hurry.
FACT: Klessens’ spiegeltents require no metal fasteners for construction and can be assembled by a team of three or four in a single day. There are currently about one hundred of these remarkable structures in existence. Teatro ZinZanni’s two tents, San Francisco’s Palais Nostalgique and Seattle’s Moulin Rouge, are among the oldest in the Belgian collection. The tents are still owned by the Klessens family and Willem’s grandson, Willy Klessens (and his son Johnny). Together, they have been lovingly restoring and touring the tents since 1987. Willy traveled to Seattle and San Francisco with his son Johnny and brother-in-law Tom to oversee the construction of these tents for Teatro ZinZanni.
As you step into the tent, you’ll be dazzled by gorgeous, seductive dancers, singers and acrobats as you are seated restaurant-style in a unique circular venue that comfortably seats a whopping 285 guests. Once the performance begins, you’ll be entertained by the combination of cirque, comedy and cabaret with a five-course feast that maintains a high standard for taste and freshness. The beautiful wait staff are on top of it as they sneak around and ensure your glass is full and are having a good time.
The live entertainment combined with the savory dishes, paired with a wine flight, highly recommended (ordered separately) makes this a memorable experience that’s perfect for a night out, a gift, something to do when you have guests from out of town or perfect for a special occasion. Each month, Teatro ZinZanni showcases a number of themed performances including children specific shows that are perfect for the family.
Overall, the performance was spectacular! A show that will put you on the edge of your seats. We highly recommend adding this to your bucket list of things to do as a local and for guests visiting from out of town.
Where: Teatro ZinZanni is located at 222 Mercer Street, in Seattle Center’s Theatre District at 3rd Avenue North and Mercer Street.
When: Regular evening performances are Thursday through Saturday at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at 5:30 p.m. with occasional Wednesday evening performances at 6:30 p.m. Midday Matinees begin at 11:30 a.m. on select Sundays. Late night experiences occur periodically; shows start at 11:00 p.m. Single tickets for all shows are sold up to six weeks in advance.
Tickets: Visit www.dreams.zinzanni.org for full show schedule. Tickets available online at www.zinzanni.org, by phone at 206.802.0015 and in person at our Box Office – 222 Mercer Street. Box Office hours are Tuesday – Saturday, Noon to 7:00 p.m., and Sunday Noon to 6:00 p.m.
Charles Koh
