Handel's Saül

Théâtre du Châtelet

It is hard to miss the grandiose building that is the Théâtre du Châtelet, which towers above the busy Place du Châtelet, directly opposite its twin, the Théâtre de la Ville. The larger of the two playhouses, with 2,046 seats, the Théâtre du Châtelet specializes in musical productions, whether that be musical theatre, dance, concerts, or opera. Its history stretches back 150 years to the time of legendary city planner Baron Haussmann. Having destroyed another theatre during his renovations of Paris, Haussmann ordered that the Théâtre du Châtelet, then called the Cirque Imperial, be constructed as its replacement. Since then, the theatre has played host to a wide variety of genres. Back in 1862, its programme centered around militaristic performances and fairy tale plays. At one point the theatre was best known for its extended run of Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days, which spanned 64 years and 2,195 performances, and ended only with the Nazi occupation of Paris in 1940.

Since 1979, the theatre has been fully funded and operated by the City of Paris, during which time it has undergone two major renovations. The first saw the theatre become ‘Le Théâtre Musical de Paris’ – whilst the theatre has yielded the name, it has retained the specialization. More recently, the theatre’s focus has shifted away from classical music and opera and towards musical theatre, particularly Parisian reimaginings of Broadway musicals. American classics like Kiss Me, Kate, Singin’ in the Rain, and An American in Paris have all appeared on the bill. Surrounded by the bustling downtown neighborhood of Châtelet, a trip to this theatre makes planning an evening out easy.

Fast facts
Capacity: 2010
Handicap Accessible: Yes, though we recommend contacting us with your requirements so we can ensure the best possible placement.
Air conditioning: Yes
Heating: Yes
Coat Check: Yes (free service)