AN iconic dancer who became artistic director of the world-famous Moulin Rouge has died aged 65.

Janet Pharaoh enjoyed a stellar career which saw her rise to international success as a ballet mistress.

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She sadly died on Tuesday, Moulin Rouge president Jean-Jacques Clerico has now confirmed.

A special service of commemoration is to be held at the American Cathedral in Paris on March 11.

The Moulin Rouge said it was “deeply saddened” to announce Ms Pharaoh’s death.

“She has discovered, trained and accompanied thousands of artists recruited from all over the world, passing on to them her love of dance and the stage,” it said.

Janet began dancing at the age of five and rose sharply after she was talent spotted by The Bluebells in 1977.

But she spent much of her life in Paris after being recruited by the Moulin Rouge in 1980.

She went on to become the Moulin Rouge’s ballet mistress in 1997 and later its artistic director.

Founded in 1889, the venue is famed for being the birthplace of the can-can and for its colourful shows performed by dancers from around the world.

It was brought to the big screen in 2001, when Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor starred in Baz Luhrmann’s colourful musical Moulin Rouge!

Her career took her to exotic locations across Europe, including Monte Carlo and Barcelona.

Speaking previously to The Yorkshire Post, Janet shared how the dance world became a close-knit community.

She said: “It started as a hobby but you almost get sucked into this world if you are at a good dance school and it becomes a family.”

Colleagues and dancers have since honoured Janet after her illustrious career.

One tribute read: “She discovered, trained, and accompanied thousands of young artists recruited from all around the world, sharing with them her love of dance.

“Her artistic team will pursue her creative vision to honour her artistic legacy.”