Paris transformed into a musical wonderland this Sunday as more than 10,000 people gathered on Rue Royale to witness a spectacular performance of Queen’s iconic Bohemian Rhapsody.
The show, organized by pianist and social media star Julien Cohen, featured Sunderland singer Mickey Callisto, guitarist Olly Pearson, ballet dancers, a children’s choir, and more than 300 artists, including an orchestra and multiple dance troupes.

The event, part of the city’s Illuminations de Noël celebrations, promised — and delivered — a performance even more ambitious than Cohen’s previous viral flash mob, which had captivated over 500 million viewers online.
That earlier stunt, filmed in the Place de la Contrescarpe, featured Callisto dressed in a navy blue tracksuit, belting out Bohemian Rhapsody alongside 30 musicians, leaving locals and social media audiences alike stunned. Callisto recalled, “It was nerve-racking with so many musicians and no rehearsal, but seeing Queen’s official account comment ‘we absolutely love this’ was unbelievable.”

For Sunday’s event, Cohen elevated the scale dramatically. The 30-minute show was structured around five artistic tableaux, seamlessly blending classical music, pop, and original choreography.
Attendees were treated to a convergence of styles: ballet, contemporary, and hip-hop dancers performing alongside orchestral arrangements, children’s choirs, and guest musicians. Cohen explained, “After the viral response to Bohemian Rhapsody, I wanted to create something that surpasses anything I’ve done before — pedestrianizing several streets and turning the city itself into a stage.”

Mickey Callisto, whose viral performances and Britain’s Got Talent audition earlier this year earned him comparisons to Freddie Mercury, delivered vocals that were both powerful and emotionally resonant.
Olly Pearson, who joined Callisto on guitar, and the assembled ensemble elevated the performance into a multi-sensory experience. The iconic Bohemian Rhapsody number, already legendary from Cohen’s previous viral video, returned in a new and intricate staging, complete with elaborate lighting, choreography, and orchestral support.

For Callisto, the event marked another milestone in a meteoric year. “The first video was like scoring a goal at the Stadium of Light,” he said. “This performance was even bigger — seeing thousands of people react in real time and knowing the music resonates globally is incredible.” The show has already generated international interest, with requests for performances in Singapore, Amsterdam, and beyond.
By blending large-scale theatricality, live music mastery, and viral energy, Julien Cohen and Mickey Callisto delivered a Bohemian Rhapsody celebration that captivated Paris and reminded the world why Queen’s music continues to inspire generations. For over 10,000 lucky attendees, it was an unforgettable moment — a dazzling tribute that fused classical artistry, pop culture, and sheer spectacle on the streets of Paris.