Who were the "Diamond Dogs"?
The 'Diamond Dogs' was once a name given to prostitutes who worked at the Moulin Rouge. The name was said to have come from a bizarre practice that the women had of throwing diamonds that they were given by eager patrons into a fire. A lot of myth surrounds these dancers; tales of their sexual excess, their prowess, tales of failure and of triumph. They perfected the French can-can, they became veritable celebrities; they made the Moulin Rouge what it was.
Nini-Legs-in-the-Air was a real person, and was one of the most famous of the 'Diamond Dogs'. She plays a central role in the movie, and is certainly one of the most memorable characters. In real life, Nini was said to be "dark, ugly and vulgar" but, in the film, she is portrayed by the beautiful Caroline O'Connor!
Mome Fromage was also an actual person, and is said to have gained her name from her weight and liking of cheese. In the film, Mome Fromage is played by Lara Mulcahy.