Janet Jackson Makes History at the Louvre

It's a safe bet that the Louvre Museum, that hallowed sanctum that houses the Venus de Milo, the Mona Lisa and countless other priceless artistic treasures, has never seen moves quite like Janet Jackson's. The Grammy-winning pop princess' concert - the highlight of the "Liaisons au Louvre" benefit, with proceeds going to the museum - was a first-ever for an institution more often associated with string quartets in period costume than pop divas.

Held under I.M. Pei's iconic pyramid, Jackson's performance was loud enough to make the glass paneling reverberate overhead. Jackson, sporting a white crocodile pantsuit performed a medley of her greatest hits, including 1986's "What Have You Done For Me Lately," ''Miss You Much" and "Rhythm Nation," both from 1989, as well as her trademark hit "Nasty." Jackson had the well-heeled crowd of about 300 up and dancing.

The Louvre closed early to the public to receive guests including Prince Albert II of Monaco and actress Diane Kruger, as well as hundreds of art lovers and do-gooders with deep pockets. They sipped flutes of Champagne as they ambled among the works of art and explored private chambers once belonging to Louis XIV, the Sun King, before dining in a covered sculpture garden.

The "Liaisons au Louvre" event is organized by Becca Cason Thrash, a Houston-based philanthropist whose work for the museum has made her a beloved figure in France. Tuesday's gala capped three days of festivities for the out-of-town attendees, including a dinner at the American ambassador's residence and a trip to a chateau outside Paris.

The first "Liaisons au Louvre" gala raised 2.7 dollars million in 2008. Funds from Tuesday's gala will help restore a Louis XV drawing room, organizers said.