Show found me a career, husband and a baby son
Landing the role as lead dancer is a dream come true for Sarah Tandy who has been with Moulin Rouge for nearly 13 years.
The Parisian cabaret not only gave her a career but led her to love after she fell for husband David, also a principal dancer in Moulin Rouge.
They have been together for 12 years and tied the knot five years ago at Linlithgow Palace and now have a two-year-old son, Elliot.
“David and I are partners just as much on the stage as we are off,” Sarah said. “Some people say it can’t be ideal working with your husband, but it works for us.
“In fact, when David lifts me on stage, it’s just smooth.”
Little Elliot is already keen to follow in his parents’ footsteps.
“He loves to dance,” Sarah said. “And, when you ask him what he wants to be when he grows up, he says be in the Moulin Rouge.”
Sarah first dipped her toe into the world of dance aged five.
Ten years later, she enrolled at Preston Dance College. After joining Moulin Rouge at 19, she took a break for four years before returning to the famous show.
“I was never really academic at school,” Sarah confessed. “So it was an easy decision for me to follow dance.”
Straight after college her mum spotted that Moulin was holding auditions in Scotland and encouraged Sarah to go along.
“I did a bit of can-can, a jazz routine and a few cartwheels – and was offered a job on the show right there and then,” she said.
“It’s so glamorous doing the shows. “Sometimes I feel like a big kid, getting dressed up in heels and sparkles.
“The costumes are incredible – but it takes a lot to learn how to dance in them.
“They’re big and heavy. In fact, I think the finale backpacks used to be about 12 kilos but are closer to five now! Learning how to carry yourself in them – and keep smiling throughout – is quite something.
“But when you do two shows six nights a week, it becomes second nature.”
“Joining Moulin was the best decision I’ve ever made.
“It has given me everything – a job, a husband and a family.
“I started my career at Moulin and that’s where I hope to retire.
“I guess it’s true what they say… once a Moulin showgirl, always a Moulin showgirl.”